Herb & Lemon Marinated Goat Cheese

Herb & Lemon Marinated Goat Cheese 

1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves 

1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives 

2 garlic cloves, very finely minced

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 

Zest of 1 lemon, grated on a microplane 

2 cups extra virgin olive oil 

1 ½ tablespoons chopped fresh basil 

1 X 12-ounce log goat cheese 

Toasted baguettes slices, to serve 

1. Combine the thyme, chives, garic, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and olive oil in a small saucepan and heat over low heat. Very gently cook for 10 minutes, then cool to room temperature. 
2. Slice the goat cheese into ¼-inch thick rounds. Grab a 13 X 9-inch pan and pour in ½ cup of the herby olive oil mixture. Place the goat cheese rounds in the dish in a single layer, then pour over the remaining oil mixture, ensuring that each piece is kissed with deliciousness. Cover and chill in the fridge for 8 hours (or overnight). 
3. Serve with toasted baguette and enter a world of happiness. (bonus – excess oil can be saved for another recipe. Awesome).