NEW Strawberry Goat Cheese Tartines with Basil or Mint 🌿🍓

Air fryer magic meets summer brunch vibes with this tartine recipe!

There’s something about strawberries and goat cheese that just sings of summer. Sweet, juicy berries layered over tangy, creamy cheese, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze—it’s the kind of breakfast that makes you feel like you’re treating yourself, even if you’re just in your kitchen in pajamas. These Strawberry Goat Cheese Tartines are a simple, stunning way to elevate your morning or brunch table, no fancy skills required.

They’re inspired by one of our all-time favourite breakfast spots in Mérida, Marmalade Centro, where creative, fruit-forward tartines are their signature. We fell hard for a version they served with strawberries, cheese, and herbs—and immediately knew we had to recreate something similar at home.

This is our spin: an easy, air fryer-friendly tartine that works with ingredients you probably already have on hand. You can dress it up for guests or scale it back for a solo breakfast with coffee and sunshine.

Jump to Recipe

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🛒 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sourdough bread (thick slices, preferably a day or two old—it toasts better)
• Olive oil
• Fresh rosemary (optional, for infusing the bread with a warm, earthy note)
• Plain goat cheese (use a generous amount—you want it to melt slightly into the toast)
• Fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
• Balsamic glaze (the syrupy, slightly sweet kind—not straight balsamic vinegar)
• Fresh basil, shredded
  • Or substitute fresh mint for a lighter, more refreshing twist

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🧑‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep the Bread

Start by brushing your sourdough slices with a bit of olive oil. If you’re using rosemary, sprinkle a few small leaves or needles onto the oiled side. This infuses the bread with flavor as it toasts. (You can also skip the rosemary if you’re going for the mint version—it’s a more delicate, herbal profile that doesn’t need the earthiness.)

2. Toast in the Air Fryer

Place your slices into the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 4 to 5 minutes, until the edges are crisp and golden but the center stays chewy. Every air fryer runs a little differently, so keep an eye out toward the end.

Don’t have an air fryer? You can also toast the bread in a regular oven under the broiler—just flip once for even crispness.

3. Spread the Goat Cheese

Once the bread is warm and golden, immediately spread a thick layer of goat cheese on each slice. The heat will slightly melt the cheese into the nooks and crannies of the sourdough—perfection.

4. Add Strawberries

Layer your thinly sliced strawberries on top. Feel free to overlap them slightly or fan them out for a more artistic look.

5. Finish with Balsamic & Herbs

Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze. Then, sprinkle over your herb of choice—basil gives a sweet-savory depth, while mint brings a fresh, cooling finish that pairs especially well on hot days.

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🌞 Why You’ll Love This

There’s something effortlessly elegant about this tartine. It’s the kind of dish you’d see at a cozy little café, but you can pull it off in minutes at home. It’s sweet, savory, crisp, creamy, and herbaceous all at once—a total flavor party.

Even better? It’s flexible. Want to add a touch of heat? Try a pinch of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of hot honey. Feeling fancy? Add a few toasted almonds for crunch or swap in blackberries or figs when strawberries are out of season.

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🌿 Basil vs. Mint – Which Herb Wins?

Let’s talk about that finishing touch. Fresh basil and strawberries are a classic combo. They share similar aromatic notes, and when paired with the tang of goat cheese and acidity of balsamic, basil feels refined and elevated—perfect for brunches, bridal showers, or “I’m pretending to be in Italy” mornings.

But fresh mint? Don’t underestimate it. Mint brings a brightness and coolness that makes this tartine feel light. It’s amazing if you’re serving this as part of a bigger summer spread—especially when paired with lemonade or iced tea.

You can’t go wrong with either. In fact, we often make one tartine with basil and one with mint and let guests choose their favorite.

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🥂 Hosting Tip: Turn It Into a Brunch Platter

This recipe scales up beautifully for guests. Simply toast all your bread slices in advance, and set up a little DIY bar with bowls of goat cheese, berries, herbs, and balsamic glaze. Everyone can build their own—and you’ll look like a brunch genius.

Pair it with:

• Sparkling rosé or prosecco
• A pitcher of mint lemonade
• Yogurt parfaits or chia pudding cups
• A light salad with arugula, nuts, and citrus dressing

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💡 Kitchen Notes

• Goat Cheese Tips: If your goat cheese is too firm to spread easily, let it sit at room temp for 10 minutes or warm it for a few seconds in the microwave.
• Balsamic Glaze: You can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar with a spoonful of brown sugar until thickened, but store-bought works great too.
• No Sourdough? Use any rustic bread—ciabatta, multigrain, or even a baguette cut lengthwise. Just avoid super soft sandwich bread; you want something sturdy.

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🧡 Our Inspiration: Marmalade Centro in Mérida

We first tasted a version of this tartine at Marmalade Centro, a hidden gem in the heart of Mérida. Their brunch menu leans creative and beautifully presented—think fresh fruit, gorgeous cheeses, and baked goods that feel like a hug. This tartine isn’t a copy, but it’s our love letter to the flavors they play with.

If you’re ever in Yucatán, don’t miss it. We left full, inspired, and with about 10 ideas for new breakfasts.

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🍓 Let’s Make It a Thing

This tartine is more than just a recipe—it’s a little moment of calm and creativity in the morning. Whether you’re making one slice or a dozen, it’s a sweet reminder that good food doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special. If you are interested in trying any of our other goat cheese tartines check them out here!

Try it and tag us @tastycue with your tartine twist! Are you a basil fan or a mint convert? Do you add black pepper or keep it simple? We’d love to see what you come up with. ✨

Much love,

Sidney and Thomas

📌 Pin This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest! And if you make it, tag us @TastyCue — we’d love to see your twist!