Sweet Cherry Relish on Goat Cheese Crostini

It’s easy to get creative in the kitchen at the lake

with so many fresh ingredients a short bike ride away!

Cherries rarely make it past the kitchen counter

where they’re scooped up by the handful when anyone walks by…

I tend to linger at the counter… hoovering, hovering over the cherries,  my gluttonous mouth gorging, as I reassure myself that they are incredibly healthy because they taste so sweet and fresh.

Then memories and new recipe ideas burst their way through my cherry-induced coma and into my imagination.

A few summers ago my lakeside friend, Shaunna, divulged a recipe for a Cherry Relish…

{ and, of course, I had left it at home! }

So straight from a mouthful of ambrosia, a pinch of a memory and a splash of something different, here is a fresh new “just a smidgen” take on that

Sweet Cherry Relish on Goat Cheese Crostini

Best of all, it’s easy to make.. as all good “Lake Recipes” should be!

{ If cherries are no longer in season, poor you.. you’ll just have to tuck this one aside for next summer! }

Here is the finished…
Sweet Cherry Relish

{ heaped atop a toasted and creamy goat cheese spread costini }

It could even pass as lunch or a light supper, n’est-ce pas?

Sweet Cherry Relish
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Ingredients
2 cups cherries, pitted and quartered
1 scallion (green onion) chopped finely
Juice of 1 lime
1/4 jalapeño pepper, minced
1/8 cup mint, chopped
1 tbsp brown sugar
pinch salt
1 tbsp balsamic glaze
Instructions
Mix all ingredients together and allow flavors to blend for 30 minutes.
Serve with goat cheese and toasted crostini.
Just a Smidgen http://justasmidgen.com/

 

 

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imagesbytdashfieldAugust 22, 2012 - 2:42 pm

Looks absolutely delish!

spreeAugust 22, 2012 - 2:44 pm

Oh lucky lucky for us, cherries still abound! This is going to the table for a lazy (sadly, lake-less) weekend! Really luscious looking, Smidge and I love how you’ve paired it with the creamy cheese and the crusty bread! my friend, you really know how to eat! :) (and I mean that as high compliment!!) xox

healthygirlandthecityAugust 22, 2012 - 2:45 pm

cherries AND goat cheese? you had me at hello… yum!

Choc Chip UruAugust 22, 2012 - 2:47 pm

Creativity indeed at its peak my friend, what a lovely crostini! :)

Cheers
Choc Chip Uru

Clouds of ColourAugust 22, 2012 - 3:01 pm

YUUUUUMMM! Its breakfast time here but I would totally devour that right now. Beaut photos!

vivekaAugust 22, 2012 - 3:07 pm

This is so good … and I’m drooling now over those pictures – who … cherry relish sound so good. Love cheese and sweet … this goes on file – think there will be a problem with fresh cherry now. All gone.

niasunsetAugust 22, 2012 - 3:10 pm

I have never tasted or known this one… But fascinated me, you are amazing dear Barbara, Thank you, love, nia

hotlyspicedAugust 22, 2012 - 3:13 pm

Oh yum. The colours are amazing. I’ve never had cherries made this way before. I think these would go so well with goat’s cheese. Beautiful images Smidge xx

SarahAugust 22, 2012 - 4:38 pm

Cherry relish?!?!? I am so in!!! That looks so good Smidge. I adore cherries, and we’re planning a trip to cherry-filled Door County, Wisc soon so I’ll stock up for lots of cherry relish! YAY!

glutenfreezenAugust 22, 2012 - 4:46 pm

Looks absolutely delicious! What a gorgeous contrast in color too with the goat cheese. I’ve never had anything like it but I bet the cherries are amazing with the jalapeno and mint!

glitzgirlzglamourguideAugust 22, 2012 - 5:48 pm
saffronandhoneyAugust 22, 2012 - 7:32 pm

What a wonderful idea for cherries – taking this on board! How beautiful!

jeanneAugust 22, 2012 - 8:29 pm

All of fav things in one recipe! Love it!

yummychunkletAugust 22, 2012 - 8:55 pm

What a tasty, sweet twist to relish!

thekalechroniclesAugust 22, 2012 - 8:57 pm

No cherries here until next May — I can’t believe you have them so late. I’m saving this post though, because the flavors look fabulous (mint! brown sugar!)

Sybarite SauvageAugust 22, 2012 - 9:06 pm

And just as I was wondering what to do with those cherries in the fridge! Yes, I could eat them straight up. That’s one of the dividends of summer. But scallion and jalapeno? That’s the hook right there!

But only 1/4 of a J-Peno? Girl, you gotta get yer heat on. Use the whole thang! ;-)

ChgoJohnAugust 22, 2012 - 10:11 pm

This looks really good, Barb, and love that it can easily be prepared, oerfect for when you’re on vacation. You’re not supposed to fix complicated dishes on vacation. You’re supposed eat out or eat simple. It’s a vacation, after all, and not just a kitchen swap. Ya know, cherries are still in our groceries; I saw some this very morning. I’ve still time to make your relish. Now, if I could only find a cabin on a lake …

Three Well BeingsAugust 22, 2012 - 10:12 pm

Oh Barb! I’m almost giggling this sounds so good. I don’t think we have any cherries left, but if I can find them anywhere he we go! If not, it goes in the save file! I love the jalapeno addition! Debra

KristyAugust 22, 2012 - 10:15 pm

Your title alone had me drooling. I actually commented out loud at your title. Mike inquired what got my attention and it then got his too. This is fabulous!

susielindauAugust 22, 2012 - 10:45 pm

I am definitely making this! Yummy and beautiful!

LesleyAugust 23, 2012 - 12:25 am

Stunning I can’t wait to get some cherries! You have the perfect combo here!

girlinafoodfrenzyAugust 23, 2012 - 3:05 am

Tasty stuff and yes (I’m definitely Oneida those folks) who’s craving summer fruits and delicious light food and summer. Beautiful :)

The Local TravelerAugust 23, 2012 - 3:07 am

Looks amazing as always. Kind of a random question but what kind of lens do you normally use to shoot food photos? Your pics are always stunning.

movita beaucoupAugust 23, 2012 - 4:17 am

Oh boy. My tummy is a rumbling! Gorgeous recipe, gorgeous photos – terribly enticing…

Keep Calm and Eat OnAugust 23, 2012 - 4:24 am

Never enough cherries! I love that relish. I can imagine the taste so well. I’m gonna let you know!

cookinginsensAugust 23, 2012 - 4:38 am

Nice!

Judy @Savoring TodayAugust 23, 2012 - 7:09 am

I don’t think this recipe could get any better–cherry relish on goat cheese?! Be still my heart. I too love fresh cherries and I can eat bowl full after bowl full as I reassure myself of the same thing–it’s good for me! One of the things I love about summer is the simplicity of ingredients that are so satisfying. :)

Eva TaylorAugust 23, 2012 - 7:39 am

What a lovely combination of flavours, I’ll have to put this on the list for the cottage on the Labour Day weekend. Perfect for a little bite!

thecompletecookbookAugust 23, 2012 - 7:46 am

Oh la la – what a fantastic and scrumity cherry delight!
:-) Mandy xo

ChristinaAugust 23, 2012 - 7:58 am

Thank you for a cherry recipe! I’m going to go to the store + get a cherry pitter, so I can try this.

ceciliagAugust 23, 2012 - 8:05 am

Absolutely perfect! I pinned it! c

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:39 am

Thanks:D

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:39 am

Oh.. but they will be on the table in your pretty new kitchen, just as wonderful I say! :D xx Smidge

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:40 am

They are addicting, just sayin’…

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:40 am

Thanks CCU… I’m off to visit you soon!! xx

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:41 am

This would probably be good at breakfast, maybe on a little toast:D

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:42 am

Truly, we are so far behind the rest of you for the appearance of fruit at our markets. In the spring I’m envious of your fruit and veggies!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:42 am

xx nia!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:42 am

They are a yummy combination for sure. Thanks Charlie!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:43 am

I can’t wait to see photos of your buckets filled with cherries.. you will post them now, won’t you?? Please *begging* , I miss your posts!! xx

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:43 am

It was definitely yummy, almost like jam now that I think about it:D

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:43 am

Thanks for visiting my site, I’ll be off to see yours!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:44 am

I hope you love it!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:46 am

:D

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:46 am

xx Thank you!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:47 am

I think everything here is late.. we’re so far north of your warm country! What’s in season there right now?

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:47 am

Hahaha.. You’re right, next time, I’m throwing the whole thing in!!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:48 am

Well.. I think it would fit nicely in the shade of your rose garden.. with the scent of flowers blooming all around you? :D

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:49 am

It was a yummy one.. definitely a keeper from the reaction of people who sampled:D

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:49 am

I’m glad you both liked it, Kristy:D

glitzgirlzglamourguideAugust 23, 2012 - 8:52 am

Great! :)

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:54 am

Thanks Susie xx

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:54 am

:)

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:55 am

I love eating this sort of thing as a meal in the summer:D So easy…

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:58 am

I have a newer camera and an older lens. I use AP with an automatic aperture setting so I don’t have to do too much to. If I zoom in it puts the background out of focus. The lens says (trying to know what numbers to give you, I’m not an expert) EFS 17-85 mm Macro 0.35m/1.2 ft. Not sure that helps? I always use natural sunlight, there’s no room in my kitchen for a professional “setup” with lights, bouncing, etc. I have just recently begun shooting in Raw.. but I think my computer converts it to jpeg in Iphoto? But I’m still convinced I’m getting more vibrant photos shooting in raw first. I hope that helps. I’m behind in blog reading (again!) and will come say hi soon!!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:58 am

That says so much coming from you Movita!! School must be starting soon?? Lucky you!!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:59 am

You’re right.. there can never be enough!!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:59 am

xx

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:59 am

It is a fine line between an appetizer and dessert;)

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 8:59 am

I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 9:00 am

I always forget to pin.. I’m going to start doing more of that, especially your photos.. they’re so beautiful!!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 9:00 am

I took a woman’s advice and picked up a cheap one at the dollar store, it works a charm!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 9:01 am

I love you “scrumity” word!! xx

Carolyn ChanAugust 23, 2012 - 9:03 am

That sounds AMAZING! Perfect accompaniment with goats cheese on crostini.

vivekaAugust 23, 2012 - 9:43 am

To be honest we don’t have much .. neither during the winter or spring. Late may and june the asparagus are in season and that is the first sign. *smile Going to do your sweet cherry relish .. maybe I will find some fresh still, but not so sweet as our own in summer.

Mad DogAugust 23, 2012 - 10:14 am

Very creative!

thekalechroniclesAugust 23, 2012 - 10:56 am

Fresh figs have come in again. We still have peaches, but not for much longer. We have grapes, apples, peppers. Eggplants are beginning. There are lots and lots of melons, including four on my kitchen counter (Sigh).

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 23, 2012 - 11:31 am

Wow.. you’re so fortunate! I can’t wait to see what you do with your melons:D

Natalie WardAugust 23, 2012 - 11:51 am

Looks beautiful! I’m all for easy recipes at the moment, it’s soooo hot here! I topped my goats cheese with figs & honey!

KaristaAugust 23, 2012 - 12:03 pm

Sweet Cherry Relish! You are talking my language Smidge!! Love this and with the goats cheese on crostini, divine! Pinning this one and will post on my FB Page. :)

SarahAugust 23, 2012 - 3:15 pm

Haha! They do make such pretty pictures….hmmmmmm ;) xx

cravesadventureAugust 23, 2012 - 4:36 pm

Love fruit, cheese and bread together – YUM:) Happy Day!

bitsandbreadcrumbsAugust 23, 2012 - 8:32 pm

That opening shot is just stunning, as is the idea to make sweet cherry relish. If I can find anymore cherries on sale before the season is gone, I am trying this for sure.

DannyAugust 23, 2012 - 10:06 pm

Great idea — never thought of combining these ingredients but it all sounds wonderful!

TandyAugust 24, 2012 - 12:21 am

I love cherries and cannot wait for the season after seeing this recipe :)

dfbAugust 24, 2012 - 3:03 am

I don’t know how you do it, but each photo, dish and post is an absolute stunner!

Just Add AttitudeAugust 24, 2012 - 4:58 am

This is my favourite type of recipe – easy to make. I like the idea of combining goat’s cheese and the cherry relish, it sounds delicious.

Promenade ClaireAugust 24, 2012 - 4:58 am

Delightful, sweet and sour combinations Smidge!

DavidAugust 24, 2012 - 5:01 am

That sounds and looks wonderful. I must add a cherry pitter to the list of gadgets. I wonder about applying this treatment to other stone fruits?

gastrogardenerAugust 24, 2012 - 5:02 am

This sounds so good. I have to add the cherry pitter to my list of gadgets. I wonder how this would apply to other stone fruits?

wendy@chezchloeAugust 24, 2012 - 5:27 am

Totally new for me too. Love it. We processed 20# of cherries this summer. A lot of eating fresh and a lot of pitting to put in the freezer :-)

momentumofjoyAugust 24, 2012 - 7:45 am

Gorgeous AND delicious!!! Love. It.

Emilie@TheCleverCarrotAugust 24, 2012 - 7:57 am

Oh, I can just taste this recipe as I’m reading this! I love the combination of sweet cherries, lime, balsamic and goat cheese. A box of cherries were just sent to me and now I have something new to try out. Unique & easy. My kind of recipe. Thanks for sharing :)

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 24, 2012 - 8:03 am

It works for small fruit like cherries, it has a bowl the size of a typical cherry with a hole in it for the pit to fall through and the top is like a paper punch that pokes the pit through. I try to buy freestone peaches when I have to pit a bunch, makes it so much easier.

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 24, 2012 - 8:04 am

I’d definitely be up for figs and honey, yum!

BrittanyAugust 24, 2012 - 8:57 am

Delicious and adorable appeTEASER as always!! I love this idea. I eat vegan, but would take a “vegan with benefits” day for this bad boy..YUM!

ChristinaAugust 24, 2012 - 9:10 am

really? thanks for the tip.

kateshrewsdayAugust 24, 2012 - 3:18 pm

It is 10:20pm and now my tummy is rumbling inconsolably ;-)

My Italian SmörgåsbordAugust 24, 2012 - 3:35 pm

sounds and look gorgeous. and so original to have cherries relish on crostini! and goat cheese is just perfect with sweet and sour.

Bam's KitchenAugust 25, 2012 - 8:01 am

I wish I had this recipe when I was near Traverse City, Michigan. Awesome recipe deserves some awesome cherries.

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 25, 2012 - 8:10 am

Next time:D

Sybarite SauvageAugust 27, 2012 - 6:55 am

Finally made this yesterday. Really nice! But I forgot to get mint at the store. :-(

No matter cilantro was a terrific substitute. And yes, I used the WHOLE Jalapeno! ;-)

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenAugust 27, 2012 - 7:53 am

Yay!! A whole jalapeno would be awesome:) I think the cilantro would have worked great as well.. glad you liked it! xx

The Charmed CupcakeAugust 27, 2012 - 8:48 am

I love the mix of ingredients, I would have never thought of coming up with a mix like that. Thanks for sharing :-D

Sybarite SauvageAugust 28, 2012 - 4:40 am

yeah, you made me look like a real hero. Thanks for the great recipe!

ShiraAugust 31, 2012 - 5:55 pm

These look just gorgeous Barbara! I am sorry it took me too long to finally get over here :) I could really get comfy visiting your site, it is gorgeous! Lovely work, thank you!

KarenSeptember 1, 2012 - 11:23 am

The cherries have been so sweet this year and I like your simple relish…delicious I’m sure.

kathryningridSeptember 5, 2012 - 1:38 pm

Ahhh, sweet and spicy, just like you! ;)

Zen and GenkiSeptember 7, 2012 - 1:00 pm

Hands down, the best and most mouthwatering cherry shots I have ever seen…SOOO GOOD!

GlendaSeptember 10, 2012 - 10:02 am

That looks fab, I will have to remember to revisit next summer.

[...] week I wanted to do Barbara’s “Sweet Cherry Relish” - and when I came to the supermarket they wanted 179.00SEK/$25.55/€21.10/£16.65 per kilo [...]

JacquelineSeptember 13, 2012 - 5:20 pm

I fear I would have no “off switch” with this beauty …. Absolutely delicious looking!

Barbara Bamber | justasmidgenSeptember 13, 2012 - 8:52 pm

Hmm.. I don’t think I came with an “off switch”? Were we supposed to be made with one, lol!

Norma ChangSeptember 16, 2012 - 2:14 pm

This is so simple yet looks so decadent. Will have to wait for next year’s cherry season to make, a looooong wait.

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