Description
This Warm Fig and Prosciutto Goat Cheese Dip is a delightful blend of creamy cheeses, savory prosciutto, and sweet fig jam, baked to perfection and topped with crunchy pistachios. Perfect for entertaining, this easy-to-make appetizer serves 12 and pairs beautifully with crackers, offering a balance of rich flavors and textures in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 225 g (8 oz) goat cheese, softened to room temperature
- 115 g (4 oz) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 85–115 g (3–4 oz) prosciutto, finely chopped
Topping and Serving
- 1 cup fig jam
- 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
- Crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) to ensure it is ready for baking the dip.
- Prepare Cheese Base: Combine the softened goat cheese and cream cheese in a food processor and blend until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can beat the cheeses together using a stand mixer or hand mixer in a large bowl until well combined.
- Incorporate Prosciutto: Transfer the cheese mixture to a mixing bowl and gently fold in the finely chopped prosciutto until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Spread in Baking Dish: Spread the combined cheese and prosciutto mixture into a 23 × 18 × 5 cm (9 × 7 × 2-inch) baking dish or pie plate, smoothing the surface evenly.
- Add Fig Jam: Evenly spread the fig jam over the top of the cheese layer to create a sweet contrast to the savory base.
- Bake the Dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the dip is warmed through, allowing the flavors to meld gently.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the top with chopped pistachios just before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature accompanied by crackers for dipping.
Notes
- Softening the cheeses to room temperature is crucial for easy blending and a smooth texture.
- Prosciutto can be adjusted based on your preference; use between 3 to 4 ounces for varying saltiness and texture.
- The fig jam adds sweetness that balances the saltiness of the prosciutto; feel free to use another fruit jam if desired.
- Chopped pistachios add a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor; you can substitute with walnuts or omit if allergic.
- For a vegetarian variation, omit the prosciutto and consider adding caramelized onions or roasted red peppers.
- This dip is best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
