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Baked Panela Cheese with Garlic, Thyme, and Lemon Zest Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 29 reviews
  • Author: Deborah
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 4 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This recipe for Baked Panela Cheese offers a warm, flavorful appetizer featuring mild, slightly tangy Mexican panela cheese baked with garlic, fresh thyme, lemon zest, and a touch of spice. Perfectly golden and bubbly, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables, making it an elegant yet simple dish to serve for gatherings or a cozy snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese

  • 1 block (about 12 ounces) panela cheese

Seasonings and Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Cheese: Pat the panela cheese block dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Place the cheese in the center of the prepared baking dish to ensure even baking.
  3. Add Flavorings: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the top of the cheese. Then sprinkle the minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, lemon zest, red pepper flakes if using, and freshly ground black pepper over the cheese to infuse it with flavor.
  4. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Bake until the cheese is thoroughly heated, bubbly, and the edges begin to turn golden brown, indicating a perfect crust.
  5. Serve: Remove the cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Optionally, garnish with extra fresh herbs. Serve warm alongside crusty bread, crackers, or sliced vegetables for dipping and enjoying.

Notes

  • Make sure to pat the cheese dry thoroughly to prevent excess moisture which can cause sogginess during baking.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference or omit for a milder dish.
  • For a citrusy twist, you can also drizzle a bit of fresh lemon juice before serving.
  • This dish pairs nicely with olives, fresh tomatoes, or a light salad for a more complete appetizer spread.

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Find it online: https://easydinnerinminutes.com/baked-panela-cheese-with-garlic-thyme-and-lemon-zest-recipe/