Goat Cheese & Honey Crostini

These delightful crostini are a perfect blend of creamy, tangy goat cheese, sweet honey, and fresh herbs, all atop a crispy piece of toasted bread. They make an excellent appetizer or a light snack.

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 5-8 minutes Yields: 6-8 crostini (depending on bread size)

 

Ingredients:

 

- 1 small baguette or similar crusty bread, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds (about 6-8 slices)

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 4-6 oz (115-170g) fresh goat cheese (chèvre), softened slightly at room temperature

- 2-3 tablespoons honey, plus more for drizzling

- Fresh thyme sprigs (or rosemary, marjoram) for garnish

- Pinch of black pepper (optional)

- Sea salt flakes (optional, for finishing)

 

Instructions:

 

- Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the bread slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.

- Toast the Crostini: Bake for 5-8 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

- Assemble: While the crostini are still warm (but not too hot), spread a generous dollop of softened goat cheese evenly over each toasted bread slice.

- Drizzle with Honey: Drizzle a good amount of honey over the goat cheese on each crostini. The warmth of the crostini will help the honey spread slightly.

- Garnish: Carefully place a small sprig of fresh thyme (or individual leaves) on top of each crostini.

- Serve: Arrange the Goat Cheese & Honey Crostini on a serving platter or wooden board, as pictured. Serve immediately. A sprinkle of sea salt flakes and a tiny pinch of black pepper can enhance the flavors, if desired.

 

Chef's Tips:

 

- Bread Choice: A good quality baguette works best, but you can also use ciabatta or even slices of rustic sourdough bread.

- Goat Cheese: Ensure your goat cheese is at room temperature for easier spreading. If it's too cold, it will be crumbly.

- Honey Quality: Use a good quality honey, as its flavor is prominent in this dish. Different types of honey (e.g., clover, orange blossom, wild-flower) will impart unique notes.

- Herb Variations: While thyme is classic, fresh rosemary or marjoram can also work beautifully with these flavors.

- Warm vs. Cold: These crostini are best served while the bread is still slightly warm, providing a pleasant contrast with the cool goat cheese.

- Sweet and Savory Balance: The slight tang of the goat cheese beautifully balances the sweetness of the honey. Don't be afraid to add a tiny pinch of salt at the end to really make the flavors pop.

Enjoy these simple yet elegant Goat Cheese & Honey Crostini!