Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces Nikšićki Kozji Sir (goat cheese from Nikšić, Montenegro)
- 4 fresh figs, sliced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange the sliced baguette on a baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4. Brush the baguette slices with the olive oil mixture.
5. Bake the baguette slices for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
6. While the baguette slices are toasting, prepare the toppings.
7. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and balsamic vinegar.
8. Spread a generous amount of Nikšićki Kozji Sir on each baguette slice.
9. Top each slice with a few slices of fresh fig.
10. Drizzle the honey-balsamic mixture over the figs.
11. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top of each crostini.
12. Serve immediately.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
Makes 12 crostini
Nutritional information:
Calories: 158
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 6mg
Sodium: 218mg
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any type of goat cheese can be substituted for Nikšićki Kozji Sir.
- Fresh figs can be substituted with dried figs.
- Chopped pecans or almonds can be substituted for walnuts.
Variations:
- Add a few slices of prosciutto to each crostini.
- Top with arugula or microgreens for added freshness.
- Substitute the honey-balsamic mixture with a drizzle of fig balsamic vinegar.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to slice the baguette evenly to ensure even toasting.
- Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes for added crunch.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftover crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the crostini in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the crostini on a wooden board or platter for a rustic presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a simple green salad or grilled vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the baguette slices are not toasting evenly, rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash the figs thoroughly before slicing.
Food history:
Nikšićki Kozji Sir is a traditional goat cheese from Nikšić, Montenegro. It is known for its tangy flavor and crumbly texture.
Flavor profiles:
The crostini has a combination of sweet and savory flavors, with the tangy goat cheese and sweet figs complementing each other perfectly.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or as a light lunch.
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Region: Montenegrin