This elegant appetizer or side dish combines the earthy flavor of zucchini with creamy goat cheese, a touch of sweetness from honey, and a hint of herbs. These zucchini stacks are simple yet gourmet, perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a light meal.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 4 oz (120g) goat cheese
- 1–2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: crushed walnuts or toasted pine nuts for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Zucchini
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill pan over medium heat.
- Brush both sides of the zucchini slices with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Zucchini
- For Oven: Arrange zucchini slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and lightly golden.
- For Grill Pan: Cook the zucchini slices for 2–3 minutes on each side until grill marks appear.
- Assemble the Stacks
- Once the zucchini has cooled slightly, layer as follows: start with a zucchini slice, spread a small amount of goat cheese on top, and repeat to create 2–3 layers.
- Top the final layer with a dollop of goat cheese.
- Add the Finishing Touches
- Drizzle honey over the zucchini stacks.
- Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves (and crushed nuts, if using) for added flavor and texture.
- Serve Warm or Room Temperature
- Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Alternative Cheeses: For a tangier flavor, try feta. For a milder taste, use ricotta.
- Make It Vegan: Swap goat cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use agave syrup instead of honey.
- Presentation: Use a toothpick or skewer to hold the stacks together for a neater presentation.
These zucchini & goat cheese stacks are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave your guests asking for more! 🥒🍯✨