Marinara Sauce
- Heat oil in a large sauce pan over medium heat. When heated, add the onions and garlic and cook until tender and browned.
- Add whole peeled tomatoes with juice, basil, oregano, salt and black pepper. Cover with lid and cook for 10 minutes.
- Open lid and mash the tomatoes until pieces are still visible. Cook uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375o F.
- In a small baking dish, press the goat cheese to fit the shape of the baking dish.
- Spoon 2 cups of the Marinara Sauce around the edge of the baking dish, leaving the center of the cheese exposed.Sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until goat cheese is hot and soft and the marinara is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Then sprinkle with prepared basil leaves.
- Serve hot with crostini or garlic bread for dipping.
Cook's Note: To chiffonade basil, stack 5 to 6 basil leaves and roll into a cylinder shape, then cut crosswise to create thin ribbons.
* Marinara Sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead for easy preparation of this recipe.
This creamy, hot dip is inspired by our favorite restaurant appetizer. Goat cheese is surrounded by old world style marinara sauce and served with crunchy crostini.