The secret to a healthy grilled cheese
A grilled cheese that's healthy? It can't be true! It is when you use goat cheese. It's also delicious in appetizers, or for a snack just for you.
Why Goat Cheese is Good for You
Goat cheese has about 80 calories and 6 grams of fat per ounce, compared to cow's milk cheese, which has 100 calories and 10 grams of fat.
It's high in calcium, which strengthens bones and can help prevent breast cancer.
People who are lactose intolerant can often enjoy goat cheese because it's easy to digest.
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Goat Cheese and Strawberry Sandwiches
Spread 1 (4-oz.) goat cheese log, softened, on 1 side of 3 whole grain bread slices. Spread 4 1/2 tsp. red pepper jelly on 1 side of 3 whole grain bread slices; layer with 3/4 cup sliced fresh strawberries, 6 large basil leaves, and 1 1/2 cups fresh watercress or arugula. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Top with remaining bread, goat cheese sides down. Cook sandwiches in a large, lightly greased nonstick skillet over medium heat 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden.
Our Favorite Goat Cheese Appetizers:
Pecan-Goat Cheese Truffles
Stir together equal amounts of goat cheese and cream cheese; stir in minced sweetened dried cranberries and salt and pepper to taste. Shape by teaspoonfuls into balls; roll in chopped toasted pecans.
Herb Dip
Process 4 oz. softened goat cheese, 1/2 cup plain nonfat yogurt, 3 Tbsp. assorted chopped fresh herbs, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 Tbsp. lemon juice in a food processor until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve with fresh cut vegetables.
Grape Crostini
Spread toasted baguette slices with goat cheese. Top with chopped seedless red grapes, thinly sliced green onions, minced fresh rosemary, and salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with store-bought balsamic glaze.
Article by Erin Shaw Street
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