Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup crumbled Ballyhooly blue cheese
- 1 Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brush the sliced baguette with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the crumbled Ballyhooly blue cheese, chopped walnuts, and honey.
4. Top each crostini with a slice of Granny Smith apple and a spoonful of the blue cheese mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the crostini back in the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-17 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- Makes 12 crostini
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ballyhooly blue cheese can be substituted with any other type of blue cheese.
- Granny Smith apple can be substituted with any other type of apple.
- Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Substitute the apple slices with pear slices.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to slice the baguette evenly to ensure even toasting.
- Use a sharp knife to thinly slice the apple.
- If the cheese mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the crostini in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the crostini on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs.
Garnishes:
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
- Chopped parsley
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crostini are not toasting evenly, rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the apple thoroughly before slicing.
Food history:
- Crostini is a traditional Italian appetizer that dates back to the medieval times.
Flavor profiles:
- The Ballyhooly blue cheese adds a tangy and creamy flavor, while the apple and honey add a touch of sweetness. The walnuts add a nutty crunch.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer at a dinner party or as a snack for a casual gathering.
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