Save to Pins This Goat Cheese & Caramelized Onion Flatbread is a masterful study in flavor balance. The sweetness of slow-cooked onions meets the tangy punch of goat cheese, all brought together on a crisp, golden crust. A final drizzle of spicy honey and a scatter of fresh thyme leaves elevate this simple preparation into a sophisticated appetizer or light main course that feels truly modern European.
Save to Pins The secret to this dish lies in the caramelization of the onions. By cooking them slowly with a touch of sugar and finishing with balsamic vinegar, you develop a deep, jammy richness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy goat cheese spread.
Ingredients
- Flatbread: 1 large thin pizza crust or flatbread (store-bought or homemade, approx. 250 g)
- Goat Cheese Spread: 200 g soft goat cheese, at room temperature
- Goat Cheese Spread: 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Goat Cheese Spread: 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- Goat Cheese Spread: Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Caramelized Onions: 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- Caramelized Onions: 2 tbsp olive oil
- Caramelized Onions: 1 tsp sugar
- Caramelized Onions: 1/4 tsp salt
- Caramelized Onions: 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- Topping: 2 tbsp honey
- Topping: 1/2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Topping: Fresh thyme leaves, to garnish
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a large skillet over medium-low heat, warm the olive oil. Add the sliced onions and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes until soft. Add sugar and continue to cook for another 5–10 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook for 1 more minute. Remove from heat.
- Step 3
- In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese with cream cheese (if using), chives, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 4
- Place the flatbread or crust on the prepared baking sheet. Evenly spread the goat cheese mixture over the surface, leaving a small border.
- Step 5
- Distribute the caramelized onions evenly over the cheese layer.
- Step 6
- Drizzle with honey and sprinkle chili flakes on top.
- Step 7
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are crisp and the cheese is warmed through.
- Step 8
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme leaves, slice, and serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a nuttier flavor and added crunch, try adding a handful of toasted walnuts to the top of the flatbread before sliding it into the oven.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If goat cheese is too bold for your palate, you can easily substitute it with ricotta for a milder, creamier taste that still complements the sweet onions.
Serviervorschläge
To round out the meal, pair these warm slices with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir. The wine's acidity and fruit notes will perfectly balance the rich cheese and sweet balsamic onions.
Save to Pins Whether shared with friends or enjoyed as a cozy evening treat, this flatbread is sure to become a favorite. The combination of simple ingredients handled with care creates a dish that is far greater than the sum of its parts. Enjoy every golden, honey-drizzled bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare the components ahead?
Yes. Caramelize the onions up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate. The goat cheese mixture can also be prepared a day in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving for the crispest texture.
- → What's the best way to caramelize onions?
Cook them slowly over medium-low heat with olive oil and salt. This takes about 20 minutes total. The sugar helps browning, and balsamic vinegar adds depth at the end.
- → Can I make this vegan?
Use a vegan goat cheese alternative or cashew cream cheese. Swap honey for maple syrup or agave. The flatbread can be a dairy-free crust option.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 180°C oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. Microwaving may make the base soggy.
- → Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely. Toasted walnuts or pecans add crunch. Fresh figs or pear slices complement the flavors. Arugula or fresh basil can be added after baking for a peppery or aromatic finish.
- → What can I serve with this?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir pairs beautifully. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.