© 2008 Miri Rotkovitz

Once upon a time, spices were considered so precious, and had such tremendous monetary value, that they were sometimes used to pay rent, curry favor with authorities, or even settle taxes. Alas, if you've got to send a tax payment with your 1040 this year, I'm sorry to report that U.S. Federal Government isn't the least bit interested in receiving the contents of your spice cabinet as payment. On the upside, refunds (or that economic stimulus package, I hope) won't arrive in the form peppercorns either.

After you get those taxes (or extensions) filed, breathe a sigh of relief, and treat yourself to a snack. These Herbed and Spiced Goat Cheese Buttons are incredibly simple to prepare, and go great with a celebratory bottle of wine. Serve them with crackers and dried fruit, and muse with friends about how centuries ago, having the means to roll your goat cheese in spices with abandon would have meant you were very rich indeed. No matter what your AGI may indicate.