Elegant Autumn Appetizer: Sage and Fig Crostini
As the seasons change, our taste buds crave the warm, comforting flavors of fall. This sophisticated appetizer combines the earthy sweetness of figs and sage with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese, perfectly paired with a glass of bubbly.
The Perfect Pairing
Fig jam, with its rich, jammy flavor, is the ideal complement to the crispy, herby sage leaves. For an alternative, try using quince jam, also known as membrillo, for a slightly sweeter and more exotic flavor.
Advance Prep: A Game-Changer
To make this recipe a breeze, prepare the toasts and sage leaves up to a day ahead. Simply store the toasts in an airtight container at room temperature, and wrap the sage leaves loosely in a paper towel and store in an airtight container.
Recipe Highlights
Yield: About 20 servings as an hors d’oeuvre
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 sweet baguette
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- Kosher salt
- 20 sage leaves
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- 1/3 cup fig jam
Step-by-Step Instructions
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* Toast the Baguette*
Heat the oven to 400°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Cut the baguette on the bias into about 20 (1/2-inch-thick) slices and place on a baking sheet. Using 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, lightly brush each slice. Sprinkle with salt and bake until lightly toasted and crisp, about 8 minutes. Let cool. -
Fry the Sage Leaves
Meanwhile, line a plate with paper towels and set aside. Heat the remaining olive oil in a small frying pan over medium-low heat. When the oil shimmers, gently place 2 to 3 sage leaves at a time into the hot oil until they darken in color and any bubbling subsides. Immediately remove the leaves with tongs or a slotted spoon and transfer to the paper-towel-lined plate. Repeat with the remaining sage leaves. Set aside. -
Assemble the Crostini
Gently spread 1 teaspoon of the goat cheese on each crostini, top with a heaping 1/2 teaspoon of the fig jam, and garnish with a fried sage leaf. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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