Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- 1/2 cup fig jam
- 1/2 cup crumbled Bellingham blue cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Small mixing bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. In a small mixing bowl, combine the fig jam, crumbled blue cheese, chopped walnuts, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the fig and blue cheese mixture evenly over each toasted baguette slice.
5. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 12-14 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- Makes 12 crostini
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Blue cheese can be substituted with feta cheese or goat cheese.
- Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds.
- Fig jam can be substituted with apricot jam or raspberry jam.
Variations:
- Add sliced prosciutto or cooked bacon on top of the fig and blue cheese mixture.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze on top of the crostini before serving.
- Top with sliced fresh figs or arugula for added flavor and texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to evenly spread the fig and blue cheese mixture on each crostini for consistent flavor.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the baguette to prevent it from becoming squished.
- Serve immediately to prevent the crostini from becoming soggy.
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 on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary
- Edible flowers such as pansies or nasturtiums
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or carrots
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crostini become too soggy, try baking them for a few extra minutes to crisp them up.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to store any leftover crostini in the refrigerator to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Food history:
- Crostini is a traditional Italian appetizer that dates back to medieval times.
Flavor profiles:
- The sweet and tangy flavor of the fig jam pairs perfectly with the creamy and salty blue cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer at a dinner party or as a snack for a casual gathering.
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