Baked Goat Cheese & Marinara

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 5 tbsp olive oil
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz.) peeled plum tomatoes
• 1 tsp basil
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 8 oz. goat cheese, at room temperature
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, cup into ribbons
• Sliced Italian bread

Directions

1. Use the oil to saute the onions & garlic over medium heat until tender and lightly browned.
2. Add the tomatoes (with the juice), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.  Cover and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes.
3. Mash the tomatoes until only small pieces remain.  Cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes.
4. In a baking dish, press the goat cheese into a strip down the middle.  Spoon two cups of the marinara into the dish, one on each side.  Sprinkle with 1/4 tsp salt.
5. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is hot and the marinara is lightly bubbling.
6. Let cool for 3-4 minutes.
7. Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves.  Serve hot with sliced bread for dipping.

Adapted from Tuttorosso.