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Fresh cherry tomato basil mix in a white bowl with a side of garlic herb goat cheese spread in a rustic bowl on wooden board

What Makes Garlic Herb Goat Cheese Bruschetta Special

Crispy toasted bread, a whipped garlic-herb goat cheese spread, and a bright tomato-basil topping—this bruschetta hits creamy, crunchy, and fresh in every bite. It’s a fast appetizer that looks gourmet and tastes unforgettable. Make it tonight and wow your guests! 🌿🥖🍅

  • Total Time: 23 minutes
  • Yield: 8 slices (appetizer)

Ingredients

Scale

For the Garlic-Herb Goat Cheese

  • 6 oz goat cheese (chèvre), softened

  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened (optional for extra creaminess)

  • 1 small garlic clove, finely grated

  • 1 tsp lemon zest

  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh chives

  • 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme or oregano

  • 1–2 tsp olive oil

  • Pinch of salt & black pepper

For the Tomato-Basil Topping

  • 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved (mixed colors if possible)

  • 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh basil

  • 1 tsp minced garlic

  • 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar

  • Pinch of salt & black pepper

To Assemble

  • 8 slices rustic baguette or sourdough (½-inch thick)

  • 1–2 Tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

  • Extra basil, flaky salt, and balsamic glaze (optional)

Instructions

  • Toast the Bread

    • Preheat broiler (or a skillet) to medium-high. Brush bread slices lightly with olive oil.

    • Toast 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Cool slightly.

  • Make the Goat Cheese Spread

    • In a bowl, mix goat cheese, cream cheese, garlic, lemon zest, chives, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and spreadable.

  • Prepare the Tomato Topping

    • In another bowl, combine tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, balsamic, salt, and pepper. Toss gently.

  • Assemble

    • Spread a generous layer of garlic-herb goat cheese on each toast.

    • Spoon the tomato-basil mixture over the top.

    • Finish with extra basil, a pinch of flaky salt, and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze if you like.

  • Serve

    • Serve immediately while the toast is still cris

Notes

  • Extra creamy: Whip the cheeses with a splash of milk in a mixer for 30–60 seconds.

  • Keep it crisp: Assemble right before serving so the toast doesn’t soften.

  • Make-ahead: Mix the tomato topping and cheese spread up to 1 day in advance; store separately.

  • Add-ons: A few olives, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper add depth and heat.

  • Gluten-free: Use your favorite GF baguette.

  • Dairy option: Swap goat cheese for ricotta if preferred.

  • Author: SOFIA
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer / Snack
  • Method: Toasted / No-cook topping
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean / Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://www.fastzestyrecipes.com/what-makes-garlic-herb-goat-cheese-bruschetta-special/