Classy Carrots

I prepared some carrots for dinner recently and decided they needed to be a bit classy because other than a serving of panko covered chicken, that was it!!!

I cooked the carrots crisp/tender, drained them, returned to the pan and added a little butter and a bit of brown sugar, stirring to melt butter over low heat. Remove from heat and place on serving plate or in bowl, if desired. What else could I do to class them up a notch...pecans, goat cheese and chopped fresh dill, of course!

Perfect combination and we will be serving this frequently!

Linked to Fun With Food at Paisley Passions
and
http://www.skiptomylou.org/2011/06/27/made-by-you-monday-56/

Apricot & Goat Cheese Appetizers

Looking for a unique appetizer recipe?
This may be just the ticket, especially if you like goat cheese, apricots, and nuts!

The shimmer comes from honey which makes anything special!

The chopped basil just adds a bit of color and of course a nice fresh minty taste.

And did I mention this recipe is quick and easy to prepare? Takes only a few minutes of your time!

Apricot & Goat Cheese Appetizer:

4 oz. goat cheese at room temperature
2 tsp. whole milk or cream
40 dried apricots
40 nuts (pecans & almonds work well)
Honey, for drizzling
Chopped basil to taste (4 large leaves or so)

Mix together goat cheese and cream (or milk)...spread mixture on dried apricots.

Toast the nuts for a few minutes and place warm nut on top of the goat cheese.

Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped, fresh basil.

These little bites look pretty on a doily covered plate...enjoy!

Bruschetta Your Way!

If you adore goat cheese, this is a must-try recipe for you!
It is a quick, easy, and delicious appetizer!

The photo's don't really look much different but one is tomato and the other is strawberry topped.

I sliced a baguette diagonally and toasted (but you could prepare in the oven if desired for a larger crowd)
Top the warm bread with goat cheese...I used cranberry goat cheese but you could use plain or flavored, whatever strikes your fancy!
Top some of the goat cheese with chopped strawberries and some with chopped tomatoes and then garnish with chopped fresh basil.
I sprinkled the tops with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

This is just so simple but so yummy!!!