Crisp toasts topped with juicy strawberries, creamy cheese, and a balsamic glaze for a vibrant starter.
# Components:
→ Bread
01 - 8 slices baguette or rustic bread
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
→ Strawberry Topping
03 - 1.5 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
04 - 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely sliced
05 - 1 teaspoon honey
06 - Pinch of sea salt
07 - 0.25 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
→ Cheese
08 - 4 ounces fresh goat cheese, softened
→ Balsamic Glaze
09 - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
10 - 1 teaspoon honey
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
02 - Toast bread in oven for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp. Let cool slightly before assembling.
03 - In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and cool.
04 - In a bowl, gently toss diced strawberries with honey, basil, salt, and black pepper. Set aside for flavors to meld.
05 - Spread a generous layer of goat cheese onto each toasted bread slice.
06 - Spoon the strawberry mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
07 - Drizzle each toast with balsamic glaze.
08 - Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil if desired.
