It’s fig season! Fresh figs are one of my favourite things, and when combined with goat cheese, mint & balsamic vinegar (three of my other favourite things), the outcome is just delectable. As I have mentioned in past posts, my favourite recipes are easy, delicious and look impressive – and this recipe fits that perfectly! So try mixing up your repertoire next time you bring an appetizer to a summer bbq, and impress your friends with some Fig & Chevre Crostinis!

INGREDIENTS

8 fresh figs*, sliced into fours
5 oz chevre, softened
1 fresh baguette**
2 tbs walnuts, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
About 5 sprigs of mint, sliced in a chiffonade
Balsamic crema***

*Fresh figs can sometimes be found at large chain grocers, but are more readily found at Italian or Middle Eastern specialty grocers. They have a short availability in the summer.

**To make gluten free, substitute the baguette for gluten free crackers.

***A thickened balsamic glaze that can be found at some large chain grocers, such as Safeway and Italian specialty grocers. This can also be created by reducing balsamic vinegar.

INSTRUCTIONS

Place oven on broil. Cut the baguette into diagonal 1/2 inch slices. Arrange slices on baking sheet and toast in oven. Watch carefully so they don’t burn. Flip slices once lightly toasted on top (pale brown in colour) to toast the other side.

Spread about 1 tsp of chevre on each toast. Top with two fig slices and a sprinkle of mint, walnuts and lemon zest.

Drizzle with balsamic crema and serve.

Serves 24