Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Towers – A Stunning Holiday Appetizer

Published: November 20, 2024

Updated: May 13, 2025

Elegant roasted beet and goat cheese towers layered with creamy goat cheese and drizzled with honey, topped with pistachios and fresh rosemary for a festive and flavorful appetizer. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients

3 medium-sized beets, roasted and peeled
1 cup goat cheese, softened
2 tablespoons heavy cream
2 tablespoons honey (plus extra for drizzling)
1/4 cup pistachios, finely chopped
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Beets:
- Slice the roasted and peeled beets into even rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. Set aside.
Make the Goat Cheese Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, whip the goat cheese and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Towers:
- On a serving plate, layer a beet slice, a dollop of goat cheese filling, and another beet slice. Repeat until you have three layers of beet slices and goat cheese.
Add Toppings:
- Drizzle honey over the assembled towers. Sprinkle chopped pistachios and rosemary on top.
Finishing Touches:
- Add a final drizzle of honey for sweetness and garnish with a rosemary sprig on each tower. Serve immediately.

Notes

Roasting Beets: Wrap beets in foil and roast in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 45-60 minutes until tender. Let cool before peeling.
Customizable Layers: Swap goat cheese for feta or ricotta for a milder flavor.
Make Ahead: Beets and goat cheese filling can be prepared a day in advance and assembled before serving.

Helpful Tips

Roasting Beets Perfectly
To enhance their natural sweetness, roast the beets in foil to lock in moisture. Let them cool before peeling for easier handling.
Whipping Goat Cheese
For an extra creamy texture, whip the goat cheese with heavy cream until light and airy. This ensures a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Layer Evenly
Slice the beets uniformly to maintain a stable and visually appealing tower. Use a sharp knife or mandoline for precision.
Add Freshness
Sprinkle fresh rosemary sparingly to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors. Microgreens or arugula also work as a vibrant garnish.
Use Room-Temperature Cheese
Softened goat cheese blends more easily, creating a creamy filling that spreads effortlessly between layers.

Substitutions and Variations

Cheese Alternatives
- Substitute goat cheese with whipped cream cheese for a milder flavor.
- For a sharper taste, use blue cheese or gorgonzola.
- Use a plant-based cream cheese for a vegan-friendly option.
Beet Variations
- Swap red beets for golden beets for a vibrant and slightly sweeter variation.
- Use roasted sweet potato slices as an alternative for a heartier base.
Nut Options
- Replace pistachios with walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts for a different nutty crunch.
- For a nut-free option, sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds or sesame seeds.
Sweet Additions
- Drizzle maple syrup instead of honey for a richer, vegan-friendly sweetness.
- Add dried cranberries or golden raisins between layers for a fruity touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the beets and prepare the goat cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the towers just before serving to maintain their fresh appearance and texture.

2. What’s the best way to roast beets?
Wrap the beets in aluminum foil and roast them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45–60 minutes, depending on their size. Let them cool, then peel off the skin with a paper towel or your hands.

3. Can I use pre-cooked beets?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked or vacuum-packed beets save time and work just as well. Just ensure they are unsweetened and unseasoned.

4. What’s a good substitute for goat cheese?
If you prefer a milder flavor, whipped cream cheese or ricotta works well. For a vegan option, use plant-based cream cheese or cashew cheese.

5. How do I make the dish nut-free?
Simply replace pistachios with toasted seeds like sunflower or sesame seeds, or omit the nuts entirely for a simpler presentation.

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