Marinated Goat Cheeses

Ingredients

4 (2-ounce) crottins Chavignol, or other French goat cheese
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
1/4 teaspoon dried lavender blossoms
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
1 1/2 cups olive oil
Edible flowers, such as pansies or nasturtiums, garnish
Minced fresh soft herbs, such as parsley, dill or tarragon, garnish
Homemade Croutons

Instructions

Place the cheeses in a sealable 2-cup jar. Add the thyme, garlic, pepper, lavender, and salt, and top with oil to cover completely.

Let stand for 48 hours in the refrigerator before serving.

Bring to room temperature. Transfer to a platter or plates and garnish, if desired with edible flowers or herbs. Serve with homemade croutons or crackers, or crumbled into salads.

Yield: 4 servings