If you're in the mood for an easy and elegant side dish packed with veggies, then this vegetable foil packets with goat cheese recipe is just what you need. Featuring leeks, zucchini, and asparagus all cooked together in a foil packet, this dish allows all the flavors to mingle together beautifully. The addition of goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy element that brings the whole dish together.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are fairly standard, there's one you might need to search for at the supermarket - leeks. Leeks are part of the onion family and have a mild, sweet flavor that's more subtle than its relatives. They're a wonderful addition to this recipe, bringing a unique flavor that pairs well with the zucchini and asparagus.
Ingredients for Vegetable Foil Packets with Goat Cheese
Leeks: These are a mild, sweet type of onion that brings a unique flavor to the dish.
Zucchini: This versatile vegetable adds a nice texture and flavor.
Asparagus: Adds a bit of crunch and a burst of flavor to the packets.
Olive oil: Helps cook the vegetables and adds a touch of healthy fat.
Dill: This herb adds a fresh, herby flavor that pairs well with vegetables.
Salt and pepper: These seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Goat cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy element that brings the whole dish together.
One reader, Gauthier Granger says:
This vegetable foil packets with goat cheese recipe is a game-changer! The combination of leeks, zucchini, and asparagus with a hint of dill and creamy goat cheese is simply divine. It's a perfect dish for a summer cookout or a cozy night in. So easy to make and incredibly delicious!
Key Techniques for Crafting Delicious Vegetable Foil Packets
How to prepare the vegetables: Toss the leeks, zucchini, and asparagus with olive oil and dill in a large bowl.
How to grill the foil packets: Place the foil packets over a very hot fire for about 16 minutes, or until sizzling and puffed.
How to serve: Carefully open the foil packets and transfer the vegetables to a platter, then top with goat cheese before serving.
How To Make Vegetable Foil Packets with Goat Cheese
Make your veggies extra tender and smoky with this easy vegetable foil packets recipe! Enjoy bites of seasoned veggies and tart goat cheese in one serving.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3medium leeks,(1¼ lbs)
- 1lbsmall zucchini,small
- ½lbthin asparagus
- 2tbspextra virgin olive oil
- 1tbspdill,finely chopped
- kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
- 2tbspsoft goat cheese
Instructions
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Light a grill.
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In a large bowl, toss the leeks with the zucchini, asparagus, olive oil and dill. Season with salt and pepper.
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Tear off four 14-inch-long sheets of extra-heavy-duty foil. Mound half of the vegetables in the center of each of 2 foil sheets. Cover the vegetables with the 2 remaining sheets of foil; fold up the edges all around to seal.
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Grill the packs over a very hot fire for about 16 minutes, or until sizzling and puffed.
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Using oven mitts, transfer the packs to a large platter. Open carefully and transfer the vegetables to the platter.
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Top with the goat cheese and serve. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 149.70kcal
- Fat: 8.63g
- Saturated Fat: 1.91g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.22g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.99g
- Carbohydrates: 16.08g
- Fiber: 3.82g
- Sugar: 6.51g
- Protein: 4.90g
- Cholesterol: 2.59mg
- Sodium: 583.11mg
- Calcium: 96.55mg
- Potassium: 567.90mg
- Iron: 3.63mg
- Vitamin A: 106.96µg
- Vitamin C: 31.87mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Vegetable Foil Packets
When grilling vegetables in foil packets, it's important to cut the vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. Also, remember to seal the foil packets tightly to keep the steam in, which helps to cook the vegetables and infuse them with flavor. However, be careful when opening the packets after grilling, as the steam can be very hot. Lastly, adding the goat cheese after grilling allows it to melt slightly from the residual heat, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Goat Cheese Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare the vegetables and goat cheese in advance to save time when assembling the foil packets.
Use pre-cut vegetables: Save time by using pre-cut vegetables from the grocery store to cut down on prep time.
Grill in batches: If you have a large group, grill the foil packets in batches to ensure they cook evenly and efficiently.
Invest in heavy-duty foil: Using heavy-duty foil will prevent tearing and ensure the packets cook properly on the grill.
Multi-task: While the foil packets are grilling, use that time to prepare other components of the meal to maximize efficiency.
Substitute Ingredients For Vegetable Foil Packets with Goat Cheese Recipe
leeks - Substitute with green onions: Green onions have a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a substitute for leeks in this recipe.
zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash has a similar texture and flavor to zucchini and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
asparagus - Substitute with green beans: Green beans can provide a similar crunch and flavor to asparagus in this recipe.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
dill - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can provide a similar fresh and herbaceous flavor to dill in this recipe.
soft goat cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a tangy flavor and creamy texture, making it a suitable substitute for goat cheese in this recipe.
Elevate Your Presentation of Vegetable Foil Packets
Elevate the plating: Arrange the grilled vegetable foil packets in a visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring each ingredient is showcased beautifully.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant and contrasting colors by strategically placing the vegetables to create an eye-catching presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped dill over the dish to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out and captivate the diners' attention.
Highlight the goat cheese: Crumble the soft goat cheese on top of the vegetables, creating an enticing focal point that adds a creamy and tangy element to the dish.
Emphasize texture: Ensure a balance of textures by layering the vegetables to create a visually appealing and appetizing dish.
Use elegant serving ware: Select sophisticated and elegant serving ware that complements the dish and enhances the overall dining experience.
Add a drizzle of olive oil: Finish the dish with a delicate drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Consider plate shape and size: Choose the appropriate plate shape and size to showcase the grilled vegetable foil packets effectively, allowing the presentation to shine.
Create a visually stunning composition: Arrange the components of the dish thoughtfully, ensuring a visually stunning composition that reflects culinary artistry and attention to detail.
Essential Tools for Making Vegetable Foil Packets with Goat Cheese
- Grill: A cooking appliance used for grilling and barbecuing food. It typically uses gas or charcoal as a fuel source.
- Large bowl: A container used for mixing and tossing ingredients, typically made of glass, ceramic, or stainless steel.
- Extra-heavy-duty foil: A durable and heat-resistant aluminum foil used for wrapping and grilling food. It helps to seal in flavors and juices.
- Oven mitts: Heat-resistant gloves used to protect hands and arms when handling hot cookware and food items.
Storing and Freezing Vegetable Foil Packets for Later
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for vegetable foil packets with goat cheese:
- Let the cooked vegetable packets cool completely before storing or freezing
- For storing in the refrigerator:
- Transfer the cooled vegetables to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days
- When ready to reheat, place the vegetables in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil or water
- For freezing:
- Transfer the cooled vegetables to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months
- When ready to use, thaw the vegetables overnight in the refrigerator
- Reheat the thawed vegetables in a microwave-safe dish or in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil or water until warmed through
- If you plan to freeze the vegetable packets, it's best to leave out the goat cheese topping and add it fresh when reheating the vegetables
- To maintain the best texture and flavor, consume the stored or frozen vegetable packets within the recommended time frames
The Best Way to Reheat Leftover Vegetable Foil Packets
- To reheat leftover vegetable foil packets with goat cheese, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and heat them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are heated through and the cheese is melted.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the foil packets on a grill over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even heating. Be careful when opening the packets, as steam will escape and can cause burns.
- If you prefer a quicker method, you can transfer the contents of the foil packets to a microwave-safe dish and heat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until the vegetables are heated through and the cheese is melted. Stir the vegetables halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
- For a crispy texture, you can open the foil packets and transfer the vegetables to a baking sheet. Broil them in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges of the vegetables are slightly charred and the cheese is bubbly.
- If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated vegetable foil packets, sprinkle some fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives on top before serving. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil to brighten up the flavors.
Surprising Fact About Vegetable Foil Packets with Goat Cheese
The recipe for vegetable foil packets with goat cheese is a great way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. It's a versatile dish that can be customized with various vegetables and herbs. This cooking method helps to lock in the natural flavors of the vegetables and creates a delicious, juicy result. It's a perfect dish for outdoor grilling and can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. Plus, the addition of goat cheese adds a creamy and tangy element to the dish, elevating its taste. This recipe is a great option for those looking for a simple and nutritious meal.
Budget-Friendly: Making Vegetable Foil Packets at Home
This vegetable foil packets with goat cheese recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as leeks, zucchini, and asparagus, are generally affordable and widely available. The addition of soft goat cheese may slightly increase the cost, but it adds a delightful flavor. Overall Verdict: 9/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly and delicious option for a family meal.
Is This Veggie and Goat Cheese Recipe Healthy?
This vegetable foil packet recipe with goat cheese is a healthy and nutritious option. Here's why:
- The recipe features a variety of vegetables, including leeks, zucchini, and asparagus, which are all low in calories and high in essential vitamins and minerals
- Olive oil is used in moderation, providing healthy monounsaturated fats
- Dill adds flavor without the need for excessive salt or unhealthy seasonings
- Goat cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, and it's used sparingly as a topping
While this recipe is already quite healthy, there are a few ways to make it even more nutritious:
- Increase the variety of vegetables used in the packets, such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms, to provide a wider range of vitamins and minerals
- Use a reduced-fat goat cheese or a plant-based alternative to lower the saturated fat content
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, like basil, oregano, or garlic, to add flavor without relying on salt
- Serve the vegetable packets alongside a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or tofu, to create a well-rounded meal
Editor's Take: Vegetable Foil Packets with Goat Cheese
This vegetable foil packets with goat cheese recipe is a delightful and flavorful dish. The combination of leeks, zucchini, and asparagus, infused with dill and goat cheese, creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables while adding a smoky charred aroma. The addition of goat cheese on top adds a creamy and tangy element that perfectly complements the vegetables. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy, making it a perfect choice for a light and satisfying meal.
Enhance Your Vegetable Foil Packets with Goat Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Vegetable Foil Packets with Goat Cheese Recipe:
This recipe features fresh, seasonal vegetables including leeks, zucchini, and asparagus, ensuring optimal flavor and nutrition. The use of extra virgin olive oil and dill enhances the natural taste of the vegetables. The addition of creamy goat cheese provides a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. With a focus on wholesome ingredients and balanced seasoning, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience.
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