MARINATED GOAT CHEESE WITH GARLIC, BASIL AND ORANGE ZEST

1 (12-ounce) log soft goat cheese or 3 smaller logs, chilled
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tablespoons finely minced fresh ginger
1/3 cup slivered fresh basil
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon whole peppercorns
1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
Crackers as accompaniment

Using a thin-bladed bladed vegetable knife, cut the goat cheese into 1/2-inch thick slices. (Dip the knife blade in hot tap water after each cut.) Arrange the slices in a single layer in a Pyrex pie plate or baking dish; set aside.

In a small bowl, combine the garlic, ginger, basil and orange zest; set aside.

In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil, peppercorns and allspice. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and cook until the peppercorns begin to pop, about 2 minutes.

Remove the pan from the heat and immediately stir in the garlic mixture. After 5 seconds of stirring, pour the hot olive oil mixture over the goat cheese.

Let cool slightly and cover. Marinate in the refrigerator at least 3 hours. This recipe can be completed to this point up to 1 week before serving.

TO SERVE:
Transfer the chilled cheese to a serving plate. Serve at room temperature with crackers.

Servings: 6-10
Source: Fast Appetizers by Hugh Carpenter and Teri Sandison