Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Fresh Strawberries, diced
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Juice
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil, finely chopped, divided
  • 1 medium Baguette (about 9 oz), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1.5 teaspoons Olive Oil
  • 4 oz Soft Goat Cheese (Chevre), at room temperature
  • 2 oz Cream Cheese, at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Glaze
  • Pinch Sea Salt

Instructions:

  1. Combine the diced strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and most of the finely chopped fresh basil (reserving a small amount for garnish) in a small bowl. Gently stir until the sugar dissolves. Set aside to rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the syrup to form.
  2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the baguette slices lightly with olive oil on both sides and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt. Place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are golden brown and perfectly crispy. Let them cool completely before proceeding.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the room temperature goat cheese and cream cheese. Whip the mixture until it is smooth, airy, and easily spreadable (about 1 minute with a fork or whisk).
  4. Spread a generous layer of the whipped cheese mixture onto each cooled crostini slice. Next, spoon the macerated strawberry mixture over the cheese, being careful to drain off any excessive liquid from the bottom of the bowl. Drizzle lightly with the balsamic glaze and garnish with the reserved sliver of fresh basil. Serve immediately.