Cornbread Crusted Goat Cheese Rounds

Ingredients

• 2 cups coarse cornbread crumbs (made from cornmeal muffins or cornbread)
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped
• 2 Tbsp minced fresh cilantro
• 1 Lb mild goat cheese cut into disks
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions

1. Combine the cornbread crumbs with cayenne pepper, chopped nuts and herbs on a large cookie sheet or plate.
2. Cut or shape the cheese into sixteen 1-ounce disks. Set aside.
3. Dip each piece of cheese first in the oil and then in the crumbs, lightly coating both sides.
4. Transfer to a baking sheet and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
5. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees.
6. Place the cookie sheet on the top rack of the oven and bake for 5-6 minutes or until the cheese is soft and warm.
7. Remove and serve immediately.

Notes

Can be used as salad accompaniment or topped with roasted red pepper spread or with black bean-mango relish to serve as an appetizer.