10% of Vermont’s dairy farms closed last year.

That’s the word from state agricultural officials. And, at the Northern Tier Dairy Summit held on April 1-2, 2019, dairy farmer Shawn Gingue of Waterford, talked about how his family decided to “think outside the box” in the face of economic pressures for the dairy industry at home and abroad, as well as the changing tastes and health preferences of milk drinkers and consumers.

His answer…goats!

Yes, those adorable four legged, hooved, creatures who will eat just about anything you put in front of them. Even star thistle…(of which this author has first-hand experience of) may be a viable option for those wanting to farm and also wanting to maintain a viable business.

Now, if you have ever enjoyed the earthy, flavor-filled, creamy richness of goat cheese, I’m sure you wouldn’t mind employing a few more goats “for the cause!”

Baked Goat Cheese Dip

Compliments of the Food Network, this cheese dip mixes the unique flavor of goat cheese with cream cheese and parmesan cheese, then adds in the live-giving goodness of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a flavor boost.  Get the full recipe here

Baked Goat Cheese Balls

This recipe comes to us from Peas and Crayons. I love the idea of rolling them in panko crumbs and baking instead of frying. And honey with goat cheese. Count. Me. In.! To get the full recipe and serving suggestions, click over to Peas and Crayons see what Jenn has to say.

Goat Cheese and Avocado Toast

Now, most of you have already had avocado toast…or may just avocado and a toast made with friends and a glass of wine! In either case, try this spin on toast by adding some crumbled goat cheese, a dash of red pepper, and fancy black pepper. See all the pretty pics over at Love and Olive Oil.

Spinach Frittata with Tomatoes and Goat’s Cheese

A few simple ingredients turn eggs and potatoes into a hearty, delicious meal. I love that you can prepare this in a single cast iron skillet and that it’s so colorful. Food should be fun…and this one certainly is all that and delicious too. For the full recipe, head on over to the Last Food Blog.

Fig, Mint, and Goat Cheese Salad

These are a few of my favorite things…and when you put them all together you taste buds will dance! Fresh figs are the star here with a supporting cast of goat cheese, walnuts, mint and honey. Summer salads never looked (or tasted) so good. For the full recipe, check out A House In the Hills.