
This beet and goat cheese log looks fancy but it's honestly just layers of creamy cheese and roasted beets hugged by crispy pistachios. It pops with bright flavors and is perfect as a fun snack or the star of your next get together.
I first put this together for my pals at book club and now when someone wants a real showstopper this is always it. It's easy but looks amazing—seriously stress free.
Vivid Ingredients
- Olive oil: helps the beets roast up soft and rich. Go extra virgin for the fullest taste.
- Pistachios: bring the crunch and their gorgeous color. Roasted and unsalted let you control the saltiness.
- Mixed greens or crackers: lay these out to help scoop and serve. Peppery arugula or crisp endive and sturdy crackers work well.
- Beets: they're sweet and earthy and their color is a showstopper. Look for firm beets, no mushy spots.
- Honey: adds just enough sweetness to mellow things out. Floral types can add extra flair.
- Parsley and chives: sprinkle these for fresh flavor and a pop of color. Fresh, bright green is best.
- Goat cheese: gives that silky, tangy layer. Fresh and soft mixes up easiest.
- Cream cheese: makes it even creamier and dials down the tang. Full fat has the best feel.
- Lemon juice: wakes up all the other flavors. Freshly squeezed packs the most punch.
Simple How-To
- Add Crunch and Color:
- Pick up the finished log and set it on your plate. Circle it with sturdy greens or crackers, then dust the top and sides with roasted pistachios, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of chives for extra color and textural kick.
- Assemble Your Log:
- Begin with a beet slice at the bottom. Layer on a scoop of creamy cheese, then another beet slice. Repeat with more cheese and beet rounds, stacking up until you've built three or four layers.
- Mix the Cheesy Filling:
- As the beets roast, let your goat cheese and cream cheese get nice and soft at room temp. Combine them in a bowl with honey and lemon juice and stir everything until the mix is silky and creamy. Taste and add salt or pepper if you like.
- Get the Beets Ready:
- Fire up the oven to 400 F or 200 C. Clean and trim four beets, toss them on foil, add olive oil, salt, and pepper, wrap them up, then roast for about 45 to 60 minutes. Let them cool, peel, and cut into chunky slices about a quarter inch thick.

Even my beet-hating cousin changed her mind after tasting this—probably thanks to the honey and all those roasted pistachios. People always swipe the nuts, so I now always toast double!
Smart Storage
Pop any leftovers in the fridge well covered and they’re good for up to 2 days. You can build the log a few hours ahead for best results. Don't freeze it though—the cheese gets weird and gritty.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
Not into goat cheese? Use whipped feta or herbed soft cheese instead. Try almonds or walnuts if pistachios aren't your thing. Want to jazz it up? Toss on candied nuts or a handful of pomegranate seeds.
Party Pairings
This log loves seedy crackers and slices of toasted baguette. Lay it over fresh arugula for a seasonal vibe or pop it on a mezze platter for sharing. It's just so bright and cheerful on any table—great for holidays or dinner parties!

Flavor Backstory
Pairing creamy cheese with beets is a classic move in Mediterranean and Eastern European cooking. This take on an old favorite keeps it fun and easy for get-togethers—just like those beet salads, only a little fancier.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I roast beets for this dish?
Give your beets a good scrub and trim them, then plop them on foil. Splash with olive oil, sprinkle salt and pepper, wrap it up, and bake at 400°F till they're fork tender.
- → Can I prepare the cheese filling ahead of time?
You sure can. Whip up goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, and lemon juice and stash it in the fridge. Put it together when you're ready.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Try setting your log on a pile of mixed greens or pass around some crunchy crackers. Makes every bite pop.
- → Can I substitute another nut for pistachios?
Definitely. If you’ve only got pecans or walnuts, chop those and swap 'em right in instead.
- → How do I achieve clean layers when assembling?
Let your beets chill out and cool off before you slice and layer with the cheese. That way, everything stays in its place.