This is a fabulous appetizer for the holidays.  Not only is it simple to make, but it’s full of flavor, too!

 What You’ll Need:

 1 10-oz. log of goat cheese, at room temperature

4 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature

1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing

Freshly ground black pepper

8 small cherry tomatoes, quartered

2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

1 clove garlic, finely chopped

Kosher salt

Toasted baguette slices, for serving

 

What to Do:

 Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

In a food processor, combine goat cheese, cream cheese, parmesan cheese and two tablespoons of olive oil.  Season with pepper; puree mixture until smooth.

Brush a 1 quart baking dish with olive oil, then spread the cheese mixture in the dish, mounding it slightly higher around the edge than in the middle. Bake until golden and heated through, about 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl combine tomatoes, chives, vinegar, garlic and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Toss until tomatoes are coated, then spoon tomato mixture on top of the dip.

Serve with bread, or vegetables, such as eggplant.  Enjoy!