Can I Make This Entire Recipe Ahead of Time

Yes, you can prep each part ahead. Just assemble before serving so the bread stays crisp.

Can I Use Store-Bought Balsamic Glaze

Definitely. It’s a great shortcut if you’re short on time.

What Other Fruits Pair Well with Goat Cheese

Figs, peaches, and pears go beautifully with goat cheese. You can even try cherry pie bites easy sweet and irresistible for a dessert spin.

Strawberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta |Simple Romantic Appetizer

Name: Strawberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta | Simple Romantic Appetizer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chopped strawberries; 5 chopped basil leaves; 8 oz softened garlic herb goat cheese; 1 tablespoon McCormick Grill Mates Smokehouse Maple Seasoning; 1 long French baguette (about 23 inches / 11 oz), sliced into ¾-inch pieces; Olive oil for brushing; 1 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons sugar; Optional garnish: additional basil leaves, chiffonade

Description

Sweet strawberries meet tangy goat cheese and smoky maple seasoning in this Strawberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, summer gatherings, or anytime you want a light, romantic appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound chopped strawberries

5 chopped basil leaves

8 oz softened garlic herb goat cheese

1 tablespoon McCormick Grill Mates Smokehouse Maple Seasoning

1 long French baguette (about 23 inches / 11 oz), sliced into ¾-inch pieces

Olive oil for brushing

1 cup balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons sugar

Optional garnish: additional basil leaves, chiffonade

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Mix strawberries and basil in a bowl.

2. In a separate bowl, combine goat cheese with maple seasoning until smooth.

3. Preheat grill to 350°F.

4. Brush baguette slices with olive oil on both sides.

5. Grill slices for about 3 minutes per side until toasted.

6. Spread each slice with the goat cheese mixture.

7. Top with strawberry mixture.

8. For the balsamic reduction, simmer vinegar and sugar until thickened to syrup consistency, about 10–15 minutes, stirring frequently.

9. Let cool to room temperature, then drizzle over bruschetta.

10. Garnish with extra basil if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Strawberries, basil, and bread can be prepped in advance.

Goat cheese mixture can also be made ahead, but don’t spread it on bread early to avoid cracking.

Soften goat cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for an hour or microwaving briefly.

Use fresh baguette for the best texture — crisp outside, soft inside.

Store-bought balsamic glaze can replace homemade.

Blueberries can be added for a patriotic twist.

Goat cheese can be swapped with cream cheese, brie, or mascarpone.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Valentine’s Day Recipes
Method: Grill or Broil
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: Not provided
Sugar: Not provided
Sodium: Not provided
Fat: Not provided
Saturated Fat: Not provided
Unsaturated Fat: Not provided
Trans Fat: Not provided
Carbohydrates: Not provided
Fiber: Not provided
Protein: Not provided
Cholesterol: Not provided