FESTIVE GOAT CHEESE LOGS TWO WAYS

Ciao'd while sipping eggnog. For breakfast.

Cheese balls are great. I love the nostalgia. But cheese logs are even better. Here's why:  It's super easy to find unembellished goat cheese logs at the market. Naked cheese balls not so much. Here are two ideas for dressing those goat cheese logs with holiday flavors - and hues. Make ahead and freeze. Ferry to a potluck. Enjoy while watching football. I know, right? Heaven sent.

Goat Cheese with Pistachios and Cherries

2 tablespoons finely chopped dried cherries
2 tablespoons finely chopped roasted pistachios
One 8- to 10-ounce goat cheese log

In a pie pan or on a large plate, stir together the cherries and pistachios. Roll the goat cheese in the mixture to coat, pressing lightly to adhere the cherries and pistachios. Wrap in plastic wrap and the log another roll or two.  Serve with crackers or bread.

Goat Cheese with Mixed Herbs

6 teaspoons mixed finely chopped herbs of your choice, such as chives, parsley, thyme, basil and rosemary
One 8- to 10-ounce goat cheese log

In a pie pan or on a large plate, stir together the herbs. Roll the goat cheese in the mixture to coat, pressing lightly to adhere the herbs. Wrap in plastic wrap and give the log another roll or two.  Serve with crackers or bread.