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Moroccan Tomato Toast

Moroccan Tomato Toast

Moroccan Tomato Toast

1 cup (140 g) finely chopped red onion

1/2 tsp. cumin seeds

1/4 tsp. fresh coriander seeds

4 slices thick-cut sourdough bread

Butter, for the bread

2 cups (280 g) chopped in-season tomatoes

3 T. olive oil

1/4 tsp. flaky sea salt, such as Maldon

Fresh flowering or young herbs, such as cilantro, chopped

Light honey, such as wildflower, for drizzling

 

Soak the onion in a bowl of ice water to take out the bite, 5 to 10 minutes.  Toast the cumin and coriander in a dry skillet over high heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Smash slightly on a cutting board with the bottom of your (cooled) skillet, or with the back of your knife.  Toast the bread. Spread the toast with a thin schmear of butter or drizzle of oil. Drain the onion well. Toss the cumin and coriander, onion, tomatoes, oil, and salt together in a bowl.  Stir in herbs.  Spoon over toast and drizzle very lightly with a bit of honey.

Tartiflette Toastie

Tartiflette Toastie

Tartiflette Toastie

Lunch doesn’t get more comforting – or indulgent, frankly – than this sumptuous version of cheese on toast, which is also a great way to use up leftovers. It’s not something you can take to the office, granted, but it is just the sort of thing I like to rustle up for lunch when I’m at home. It’s inspired by the Savoyarde dish tartiflette, a rich baked combination of potatoes, cheese, and bacon. Tartiflette is usually made with Reblochon, but any semisoft washed-rind cheese, such as Brie (not too ripe), works well, or try a semi-hard cheese, such as Cheddar.

1 T. canola or olive oil

2 bacon slices, or a slice of cold ham, cut into small strips

1 cold cooked potato (baked, boiled, or even roasted), thickly sliced

1 to 2 T. heavy cream or creme fraiche

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 large, thick slice bread

3 to 4 thick slices (about 1 ounce) semisoft or semihard cheese (good melting cheese)

A few crisp, bitter salad greens, such as chicory, radicchio, or frisee, to serve

 

Heat the oil in a small frying pan over medium heat. If you are using bacon, add it to the pan and fry for a few minutes, until cooked. Add the potato and fry until it is heated through and starting to color a little. If you’re using ham, add it now and stir until well heated through. Stir in the cream or crème fraiche and allow it to bubble and reduce for a couple of minutes. Remove from the heat and season to taste. Toast the bread, pile the mixture on top, then cover with the sliced cheese and put under a hot broiler. As soon as the cheese is melted and bubbling, whip out from under the broiler and transfer to a plate. Serve at once, with a few crisp, bitter salad greens on the side.

Lemony Zucchini on Toast

Lemony Zucchini on Toast

Lemony Zucchini on Toast

 

3 to 4 zucchini, about 1 pound in total

2 tablespoons canola or olive oil

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 small garlic clove, crushed

1/4 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Grated zest of ¥2 lemon and i¥2 tablespoons juice

2 thick slices of bread

10 fresh basil leaves, cut into thin strips

Extra-virgin olive or more canola oil, to finish

 

Slice the zucchini into thin disks. Heat the oil in a large flying pan, add the zucchini with a large pinch of salt, and sauté over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, until their moisture evaporates and they are just beginning to brown a little. Stir in the garlic and thyme and cook for another minute or so, until the zucchini are a little softer and a little more colored. Stir in the lemon zest and juice. Season with a few grinds of pepper and some more salt. Toast the bread. Remove the zucchini from the heat and add the basil. Tip the zucchini mixture with all its juices over the toast, drizzle on a little olive or canola oil, and dive in.

Prosciutto & Poached Egg Tartine

Prosciutto & Poached Egg Tartine

Prosciutto & Poached Egg Tartine

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

2 eggs

2 T. purchased or homemade pesto

2 slices country-style bread, lightly toasted

1/2 cup (1/2 oz./15 g) arugula

2 oz. (60 g) thinly sliced prosciutto

 

Pour water into a large sauté pan to a depth of 3 inches (7.5 cm), add a pinch of salt and bring to a simmer over medium heat. One at a time, break an egg into a small ramekin and carefully slip the egg into the water, then adjust the heat so the water barely simmers. Poach until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness, about 3 minutes for runny yolks or up to 5 minutes for firmer yolks. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the eggs to a paper towel–lined plate. Spread the pesto evenly over the toasts. Layer the arugula and prosciutto on the pesto and top each sandwich with a poached egg. Season the eggs with salt and pepper and serve immediately. Serves 2.

Mixed Wild Mushroom Saute on Toast Points

Mixed Wild Mushroom Saute on Toast Points

Mixed Wild Mushroom Saute on Toast Points

 

2 T. olive oil

2 T. butter, cut into pieces

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

2 shallots, thinly sliced

1 1/2 lb. assorted mushrooms, thinly sliced

2 T. fresh thyme

Salt and pepper

3 T. all-purpose flour

1/2 C. dry white wine

1 C. vegetable broth

1/2 C. half-and-half

8 slices bread, toasted

2 C. gruyere cheese, shredded

 

Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter. Once butter melts, add the garlic and shallots, cook for 30 seconds and add mushrooms and combine. Sprinkle thyme over mushrooms, stirring frequently until they brown; add salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and cook for 1-2 more minutes, stirring to evenly distribute. Whisk the wine into the pan and cook it off for a minute, then whisk in the stock. Thicken the stock for a minute, then add the half-and-half and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes. Cut the toasted bread in triangle halves. Arrange 4 toast triangles on a dinner plate. Pour 1/4 of the mushrooms across each portion and top with Gruyere.

Eggs with Peppers and Tomato Cream Toast

Eggs with Peppers and Tomato Cream Toast

Eggs with Peppers and Tomato Cream Toast

 

8 slices Italian bread

1/3 cup olive oil, about

1 medium onion, finely diced

1 medium each, finely diced: red and yellow bell pepper

1 small clove garlic, minced

2 1/2 tsp. balsamic vinegar

Salt, freshly ground pepper to taste

2 T. minced fresh basil

1 1/2 cups prepared marinara sauce

1/2 cup whipping cream

8 poached eggs

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

 

Heat 1 T. of the oil in a medium skillet, preferably non-stick. Add onion; cook over medium heat until it begins to soften, 3 to 4 minutes. Add bell peppers and garlic; cook 2 minutes. Add vinegar, salt and pepper. Reduce to low heat and cook until vegetables are soft, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and add basil. Can be cooked a day ahead; heat gently on the stove or in the microwave oven before using. Meanwhile, brush the bread with remaining olive oil. Arrange on a baking sheet and bake in a 400-degree oven until lightly browned, 4 to 5 minutes; set aside. Combine marinara sauce and cream in a small saucepan or in a microwave-safe dish; cook until heated through. To serve, divide vegetable mixture over toasted bread slices. Top each with an egg and marinara sauce. Sprinkle cheese over and serve at once.

Smashed Blackberry & Goat Cheese

Smashed Blackberry & Goat Cheese

Smashed Blackberry & Goat Cheese

 

1 1/2 C. blackberries

1/2 C. blueberries

1 tsp. vanilla

1 1/2 T. sugar

3 T.s water

1 – 2 tsp. cornstarch, sifted (for thickness to your taste)

8 oz challah bread, sliced (or your bread of choice!)

4 oz goat cheese

fresh mint to garnish

 

In a medium-sized saucepan combine the blackberries, blueberries, vanilla, sugar, and water (covered) over a medium low flame. Once simmering and the fruit begins to burst (about 5 minutes) gently mash with a fork or potato masher, then whisk in the cornstarch until well incorporated. Cover once more and simmer over a low flame until needed. Meanwhile, toast the challah bread as desired — I recommend extra crispy. When ready, smear each slice of challah bread with a thick layer of goat cheese, then spoon over with the smashed blackberries. Garnish with mint, then eat!

Garlicky Tomato Toast

Garlicky Tomato Toast

Garlicky Tomato Toast

3 or 4 very ripe medium tomatoes (about 1 1/2 lb.)

1 pint cherry tomatoes (about 12 ounces)

4 to 6 large slices sturdy sourdough bread, about 1/2-inch thick

4 to 6 garlic cloves, peeled

Salt and pepper

Extra-virgin olive oil

Basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

 

Cut 2 tomatoes in half crosswise. Place a box grater in a shallow bowl and grate the tomato flesh from the cut sides, pushing through the large holes. You should have 1 cup or so of coarse tomato purée. Set purée aside, and discard tomato skins. Cut remaining large tomatoes into 1/4-inch slices. Cut cherry tomatoes in half. Set aside. Toast the bread until nicely browned and crisp. (Toasting over a charcoal grill yields a rich, smoky flavor, but a toaster, toaster oven or broiler works just as well.) With your fingers, rub the top of each toast with a garlic clove. You will see the cloves get smaller as the garlic is dispersed, pushed into the bread. (For a less garlicky toast, press lightly when rubbing.) Place toasts on a platter or individual plates. Spoon and spread a heaping T. of tomato purée over each toast. Then arrange tomato slices and cherry tomatoes randomly on top. Sprinkle generously with salt, pepper and a T. of extra-virgin olive oil per toast. Garnish with whole or torn basil leaves, if using.

 

Poached Eggs on Tomato and Mushroom Toasts

Poached Eggs on Tomato and Mushroom Toasts

Poached Eggs on Tomato and Mushroom Toasts

Olive oil

2 large flat mushrooms, thinly sliced

Pinch of salt & black pepper

1 tsp. white wine vinegar

4 eggs

4 thick slices of good bread, toasted on one side

4-6 cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced

4 slices cheese

Heat a little of the olive oil and sauté the mushrooms for a minute or two and season. Set aside. Bring a shallow pan of water to simmer, add the vinegar and salt. Break one egg onto a saucer, stir the water to create a whirlpool, tip in the egg and leave to cook for 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, lift on to a plate. Repeat with the remaining eggs. Keep the water hot.  Heat the grill to high, arrange the mushrooms on the untoasted side of the bread, cover with the tomatoes and then the cheese, grill for 5-6 mins until the cheese has just melted. Place the toast on warmed plates. Slide all the eggs back into the hot water and leave for 30 seconds, lift out and drain on kitchen paper, then put one on top of toast. Season and serve.

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 292

Fat: 16g

Fiber:

Scotch Woodcock (British Seasoned Scrambled Eggs)

Scotch Woodcock (British Seasoned Scrambled Eggs)

Scotch Woodcock (British Seasoned Scrambled Eggs)

4 large Eggs

½ C. Whole Milk

2 T. Capers, rinsed and drained

2 T.  chopped Fresh Flat Leaf Parsley

Pinch Cayenne Pepper

1 T. unsalted Butter

4 slices Sandwich Bread, toasted

2 T. Anchovy Paste (Can replace with Gentleman’s Relish)

4 Anchovy Fillets

Hot Sauce, for serving

 

Combine eggs, milk, pepper, capers and parsley in large bowl and whisk until well blended.  Melt the butter in a nonstick pan over medium low heat.  Pour in egg mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until eggs are just about set, about 10 minutes.  Spread toast with anchovy paste and place 2 on each of two plates.  Spoon egg mixture over toast and top each mound with an anchovy fillet.  Serve warm with hot sauce.

Grilled Prosciutto, Fresh Mozzarella Garlic Toasts with Fresh Basil

Grilled Prosciutto, Fresh Mozzarella Garlic Toasts with Fresh Basil

Grilled Prosciutto, Fresh Mozzarella Garlic Toasts with Fresh Basil

1 baguette
2 cloves of garlic, peeled
3 T. of olive oil
8 ounces of fresh mozzarella, sliced
6 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
sea salt & cracked pepper
fresh basil, chopped

Prepare the bread by slicing it into thin slices. Grill bread just before serving. You can do it under the broiler in your oven, or on the grill. Brush the bread with olive oil on one side. If broiling, place them on a sheet oiled side up and place them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn! If grilling, also grill the bread for 1-2 minutes. When you remove them from the grill or oven, let them cool slightly, then rub the raw clove of garlic on each piece. If grilling, brush the other side of the bread with oil, the put that side down on the baking sheet or tray. If you are broiling in the oven, just keep the toasts on the sheet with their toasted side up. Top each piece of bread with small, thin slices of prosciutto. Then, top each with a slice of fresh mozzarella. Grill or broil the toasts for 2 minutes, or just until the mozzarella begins to melt. Remove from the grill or broiler and top with salt, pepper and fresh basil.

Scrambled Egg & Avocado Toast

Scrambled Egg & Avocado Toast

Scrambled Egg & Avocado Toast

1 teaspoon butter

1 egg, beaten

1/4 avocado

1 slice sprouted wheat bread, toasted

jalapeno hot sauce, such as Tabasco

In small nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add egg; season and scramble. In small bowl, mash avocado; season and spread on toast. Top with egg; sprinkle with pepper and hot sauce. Makes 1.

Fancy Toast

Fancy Toast

Mushroom Toast

½ Sandwich Thin, toasted (Ozery Bakery One Bun Multigrain Thin Sandwich Buns)

1/2 tablespoon coconut oil

1 (4 oz) package sliced baby bella mushrooms sliced

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 clove garlic minced

1/2 – 1 tablespoon champagne vinegar

Fried egg

Crumbled Cheese (queso fresco, cojita, feta, etc), for garnish, optional

Chopped herb(s), for garnish, optional

Melt coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add in mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally for 3 minutes. Add in garlic and vinegar and cook until mushrooms are tender, about 1-3 additional minutes. Pour over toasted bun and top with a fried egg.

Energy-Boosting Breakfast Toast

1 slice whole grain, oat bran, or other hearty bread

Spread of your choice peanut butter, any nut or seed butter, cottage cheese, cream cheese, all-natural jam, smashed avocado, hummus, mascarpone, honey goat cheese

Sliced or diced fruits apple, pear, grapes, banana, peach, apricot, figs, fresh or frozen and defrosted berries, or other favorite fruits

Vegetables/leafy greens cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, arugula, baby spinach, or other favorites

Favorite toppings chia seeds, hemp seeds, flax or sunflower seeds, pepitas, nuts, coconut, dried fruits, granola, cacao nibs, fig jam, onion jam

Protein Choices:  Scrambled, Fried, Poached or sliced Hard-Boiled Egg, Bacon, Prosciutto, Ham, Cheeses

Seasoning salt, pepper, chiles, herbs, spices, salsa, honey, lemon or lime juice, everything bagel seasoning, grated cheese, hot sauce

Toast bread until lightly brown. Add spread of your choice. Top with a fruit or vegetable, or both, as desired. Scatter on any toppings you like. Finish with appropriate seasonings.  Alternate toasting method:  Preheat your oven to 425 degrees and place a baking sheet in the oven. While you are waiting for the oven to heat, butter one side of your bread with softened butter. When the oven and the baking sheet are heated to temperature, quickly remove the baking sheet from the oven. Quickly place the bread, butter side down, onto the baking sheet and return the sheet to the oven. Bake until the bottom side of the bread is toasted 5-10 minutes (the top won’t toast, so peek under the corner of your toasts to check the bottom regularly). This toast is delicious because it gets crispy on one side without drying out like it does in the toaster.

Hard-Boiled Egg & Herb Toast

 

So fast and easy if you have hard boiled eggs on hand!

1 Egg, hard boiled

1 slice whole wheat bread, toasted

1 tsp. diced herb (try parsley, tarragon, thyme, whatever you have)

EVOO

Salt & Pepper

 

Thinly slice egg, then layer slices over toast. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with tarragon.

Pear Chutney Cheese Toast

 

Chutney:

2 pears (see note)

1 tablespoon olive oil

¼ cup diced red onions

2 teaspoons minced ginger

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

4 pitted and chopped Medjool dates

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon cinnamon powder

zest from 1 lemon

¼ cup water

â…› teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

1 tablespoon butter, softened

2 slices Dave’s Good Seed Bread

3 ounces sliced sharp white cheddar cheese

1/2 cup arugula microgreens

2 teaspoons olive oil

squeeze lemon juice

To make chutney, start by peeling , coring , and chopping the pears into cubes. Heat a pot over medium-low heat and add the diced onions, cooking until fragrant, 5 to 6 minutes. Stir in the ginger and follow with apple cider vinegar. Stir up any stuck onion pieces. Add in the pears, dates, salt, cinnamon powder, zest, water, and chili flakes if using. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the pears softened, and the mixture thickens up, 15 minutes or so. If the chutney is too thick, add a splash or two of water as it cooks. Preheat broiler. Butter each slice of bread and place on a sheet tray. Bake the bread under the broiler, flipping once, until just starting to crisp. Keep an eye on the toast- this will happen quickly. Remove bread from oven and smear on 2-3 tablespoon of chutney and follow with the slices of cheese. Place back under the broiler and cook until cheese is melting and bubbly, 60-90 seconds (again, goes fast- keep an eye on it!) Toss the microgreens with the olive oil and lemon juice, then top toast before serving.

Note: When making chutney I prefer the Bartlett varieties or any other variety that holds shape when cooked.

 

Mango, Lime & Mozzarella Toast

 

Good Bread

Fresh Mozzarella

Sliced Mango

Zest from ½ Lime

Flaky Sea Salt

 

Layer cheese on toast.  If desired, place under broiler or in toaster oven to heat mozzarella a bit.  Layer with mango then sprinkle on zest and salt.

 

Goat Cheese & Bacon Avocado Toast

 

Ripe Avocado

Crumbled Goat Cheese

Thin lardons Bacon, cooked crisp

Bread of Choice

 

Mash avocado on toast.  Top with some cheese and bacon.

Heirloom Tomato Toast with Fresh Ricotta

Heirloom Tomato Toast with Fresh Ricotta

Heirloom Tomato Toast with Fresh Ricotta

2 heirloom tomatoes
4 pieces of high-quality, fresh multi-grain bread
¼ cup fresh ricotta cheese
16 basil leaves
olive oil
salt
pepper

Thinly slice the tomatoes. Place the sliced tomatoes in a colander and let them drain for 15 minutes. Remove them from the colander and lightly sprinkle with salt. Toast the bread, then spread a layer of fresh ricotta cheese on top. Add the basil leaves. Layer the sliced tomato on the ricotta toast. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with pepper. Add salt to taste. Garnish with any additional basil leaves. Variation: Flavor the ricotta with chopped scallions, chives or other herbs

Avocado Toast + Herbed Ricotta & Fresh Tomatoes

Avocado Toast + Herbed Ricotta & Fresh Tomatoes

Avocado Toast + Herbed Ricotta & Fresh Tomatoes

6 slices artisan bread, toasted
1 T. olive oil
1 large ripe avocado, halved, seeded, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup ricotta cheese
¼ cup finely chopped spinach leaves
1 Tablespoons finely chopped basil leaves
2 teaspoons finely chopped chives, divided
pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup cherry tomatoes
salt and pepper, to taste

Toast bread, in a toaster or under the broiler in the oven until golden brown. While bread is toasting, combine ricotta cheese, spinach, basil chives and red pepper flakes in a small mixing bowl . Stir to combine thoroughly. Set aside. Cut cherry tomatoes in half. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Drizzle or brush top sides of toast with olive oil. Assemble toasts by layering each piece of toast with sliced avocado, ricotta mixture, and sliced tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and garnish with snipped chives and chopped basil.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 217
Fat: 10.9g
Fiber: 3g

Avocado Toast with Spinach and Tomatoes

Avocado Toast with Spinach and Tomatoes

Avocado Toast with Spinach and Tomatoes

8 cups spinach
Salt
Green hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
4 slices natural gluten-free bread (such as Canyon)
½ ripe avocado, mashed with a fork
4 thick (½-inch) slices ripe tomato
Freshly ground black pepper
4 medium eggs, poached

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Put in the spinach and cook until wilted. Transfer the spinach to a colander and press out as much of the water as possible. Put the drained spinach in a mixing bowl and season with salt and green hot sauce. Toast the bread in the toaster. Season the avocado with salt. Once the toast is done, spread the avocado evenly over each piece of toast and place a slice of tomato on top. Season the tomatoes with salt and pepper and top each slice with an even amount of the spinach mixture. Place each piece of toast on a plate, top with a poached egg, and serve.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 180
Fat: 8.5g
Fiber: 5g

Welsh Rarebit with Wild Onions

Welsh Rarebit with Wild Onions

Welsh Rarebit with Wild Onions

 

2 T. (30 mL) butter

½ cup (125 mL) finely chopped wild onions

2 Tbsp (30 mL) flour

1 tsp (5 mL) French’s mustard powder (or 1 Tbsp [15 mL] prepared mustard)

1 cup (250 mL) milk

½ cup (125 mL) apple cider (or beer)

1 tsp. (5 mL) Worcestershire sauce

½ cup (125 mL) blue cheese (like Stilton)

½ cup (125 mL) aged white cheddar cheese

salt and pepper, to taste

4 slices good rustic bread

additional chopped wild onions, for garnish

 

Preheat the oven to broil. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the wild onions and sauté for 1– 2 minutes. Add the flour and mustard powder and whisk until a smooth paste is formed. Add the milk, cider, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until the sauce thickens. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Grate the cheeses. Add to the sauce and stir until melted and the sauce has thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Remove from the heat and allow to cool. Toast the bread lightly and place on a baking tray, top with the cooled sauce, making an even thick layer. Sprinkle with the additional raw wild onions. Place under the broiler and cook until the sauce begins to brown and the onions slightly char, about 3– 4 minutes. Serve immediately. Reserve any extra sauce; it makes a great topping for tuna or salmon melts.

Boucheron with Grapefruit and Crispy Olives Sandwich

Boucheron with Grapefruit and Crispy Olives Sandwich

Boucheron with Grapefruit and Crispy Olives Sandwich

 

1 teaspoon olive oil

1/3 cup pitted Nicoise olives

1/4 pound slice of Boucheron goat cheese

1 large grapefruit

8 round slices from a french baguette

1 sprig fresh thyme

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Toss the olives with the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet or casserole pan. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, until crispy. Turn your exhaust fan on here, it might be a little smoky. While the olives are roasting, take the cheese out of the fridge and let it come up to room temperature. Cut the grapefruit into supremes. (Cut off the top and bottom. Sit the grapefruit with one of the cut ends on the counter or cutting board. One section at a time, start at the top of the fruit and cut down the side removing the peel and white pith. Do this one section at a time, rotating around the fruit until you’ve removed all the white and peel. Now pick up the grapefruit and hold it in your hand. Carefully, use the knife in the other hand to remove the sections of fruit from the membrane, cutting at an angle. If you’d like to see a demonstration of how to make supremes, check out Ming Tsai’s tutorial here. It’s a lot easier after you’ve seen someone do it.) Remove any seeds from your grapefruit sections and set them aside in a bowl. When the olives are crispy, remove them from the oven and set aside to cool. Once they’ve cooled, put them on a cutting board and crush them lightly with the back of your knife. You just want to smoosh them a little.  Spread your bread slices on a baking sheet and toast lightly. When you’re ready to assemble, spread the softened cheese on your bread. Top with a grapefruit section and a few crispy olives. Sprinkle with a few thyme leaves. Serve immediately. Makes 8 little open-faced sandwiches.

Pretty Prosciutto & Fig Toasts

Pretty Prosciutto & Fig Toasts

Pretty Prosciutto & Fig Toasts¼ C. Fig Preserves
2 T. Mascarpone Cheese
2 slices Bread, Toasted
¼ lb. Prosciutto, thinly sliced
1 T. chopped Fresh Basil

In small bowl, stir together fig preserves and mascarpone until creamy. Spread on toast and layer slices of prosciutto on top. Sprinkle with basil. If you have fresh figs, slice one and add on top.

Avocado-Bacon Toasts

Avocado-Bacon Toasts

4 s6cc986d68058b29ab55d30d7e7216978lices rustic white or wheat bread
4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
8 slices crispy cooked bacon
2 ripe medium avocados, halved and pitted
1 lime, cut into quarters
Coarse salt to taste

Heat the panini maker according to the manufacturer’s directions. Drizzle olive oil over each slice of bread and grill the bread, two slices at a time, until they’re toasted, about 2 minutes. For each toast: Criss-cross two slices of bacon on a slice of grilled bread. Lay an avocado half on top of the bacon and smash it with the back of a spoon to spread it around the toast. Squeeze lime juice over the top and season the avocado with coarse salt to taste.

Ricotta Toast with Zucchini Squash

Ricotta Toast with Zucchini Squash

Ricotta Toast with Zucchini Squash

2 small zucchini thinly sliced

1 hefty tablespoon olive oil

salt + fresh pepper

3/4 C. ricotta

1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

4 medium slices bread

Sprouts or Microgreens for Garnish

 

Preheat oven (or toaster oven) to 400°. Lay zucchini slices on sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil. Top with salt and fresh pepper. Roast 10 minutes until softened. Meanwhile, combine ricotta, lemon zest, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and dried thyme in bowl. Toast bread. Let cool (if desired) on wire rack. Divide ricotta mix and zucchini slices between toasts. Top with freshly cracked pepper.

ULTIMATE BACON, EGG, AND AVOCADO TOAST WITH TURMERIC DRIZZLE

ULTIMATE BACON, EGG, AND AVOCADO TOAST WITH TURMERIC DRIZZLE

ULTIMATE BACON, EGG, AND AVOCADO TOAST WITH TURMERIC DRIZZLE

 

Juice of 1 lemon

1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil

1/4 cup (60 ml) honey

1 tsp ground turmeric

Splash of cider vinegar

 

8 slices thick-cut bacon (preferably nitrate-free)

4 eggs

4 slices thick-cut sourdough bread

Butter or olive oil, for the bread

Crème fraiche (optional)

2 firm ripe avocados, sliced

Flaky sea salt, such as Maldon

Freshly ground black pepper

Tender greens or shoots, for garnish

 

Stir together the lemon juice, oil, honey, turmeric, and vinegar, and set aside while you prepare the bacon and eggs.

 

Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy and brown. Drain on a paper towel and pour off a little fat from the skillet. Fry the eggs in the skillet until crispy and golden around the edges and the yolk is barely set, 4 to 5 minutes for runny (for slightly firmer yolk, cover the pan in the last minute). Meanwhile, toast the bread and brush evenly with butter. Spread the creme fraiche (if using) on the toast, then layer the bacon, avocado, egg, and greens on top. Spoon over the lemon-turmeric drizzle. Serve warm.

Roasted Grapes with Thyme, Fresh Ricotta & Grilled Bread

Roasted Grapes with Thyme, Fresh Ricotta & Grilled Bread

Roasted Grapes with Thyme, Fresh Ricotta & Grilled Bread

grapes

olive oil

kosher salt

fresh thyme sprigs

good rustic bread, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces

olive oil

fresh ricotta, preferably homemade

 

Preheat oven to 450ºF. Spread grapes onto a sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt. Lay thyme leaves over top. Toss all together gently with your hands. Place pan in the oven for 7 to 9 minutes or until grapes just begin to burst. I prefer the shorter roasting time — it’s nice when some of the grapes remain intact. Meanwhile, heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Brush the bread with olive oil. Grill until nice and toasty. Assemble the open-faced sandwiches: Spread fresh ricotta over bread. Top with roasted grapes. Discard thyme sprigs. (While the thyme sprigs look pretty, it’s a little impractical to serve the sandwiches with the sprigs…they don’t taste so yummy.)

Wild Mushroom & Toasted Walnut Crostini

Wild Mushroom & Toasted Walnut Crostini

This recipe lends itself well to a picnic because it can be made a couple days ahead and can be packed easily. If you cannot find any type of wild mushroom, then use chopped portabellas or the white button mushrooms.

3-4 T. extra virgin olive oil

3 C. mixed, fresh wild mushrooms (chanterelles, shitaki, crimini), cleaned and coarsely chopped

1 clove of garlic, minced

2 green onions, thinly sliced

1-8 oz. package low-fat cream cheese

2 T. soy sauce

2 T. non-fat sour cream

2 T. sherry

1/2 C. walnuts, toasted and finely chopped

1/4 C. chopped Italian parsley

Heat a heavy bottomed saute pan over medium for approximately 20-30 seconds. (The objective is to heat the pan enough before adding oil so the vegetables won’t stick). Add 2 T. of olive oil and tip pan to coat the bottom. Quickly add garlic and green onions and saute for 1-2 minutes then remove and reserve. Add remaining oil and mushrooms, shaking pan regularly. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until mushrooms release their juices. Remove from heat and cool. Meanwhile, place green onions, garlic and remaining ingredients except walnuts and parsley in the bowl of a food processor. Mix until smooth and creamy. Stir into the cooled mushrooms, adding the walnuts and parsley as you mix the ingredients together.

Crostini

These easy toasts can be made several days ahead if stored in an airtight container. They are also wonderful to keep on hand to serve with marinated goat cheese for unexpected guests.

1 small baguette

small amount of extra virgin olive oil

Preheat oven to 375F. Slice bread into 1/4 inch thickness. Lightly brush with olive oil on one side and place oiled side up on a cookie sheet. Bake for 10 minutes then turn over to lightly brown the other side. Remove and cool completely before storing. Will make enough for this picnic plus leftovers.

Smoked Salmon + Poached Eggs on Toast

Smoked Salmon + Poached Eggs on Toast

Smoked Salmon + Poached Eggs on Toast

2 slices of bread toasted

1/2 large avocado smashed

1/4 tsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice

Pinch of kosher salt and cracked black pepper

3.5 oz smoked salmon

2 eggs, poached *see notes

Splash of Kikkoman soy sauce optional

1 tsp. thinly sliced scallions

Microgreens optional

 

OR

 

2 slices of bread

1/2 large avocado

1/4 tsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice

Pinch of kosher salt and cracked black pepper

3.5 oz smoked salmon

2 eggs, poached

2 thin slices of tomato

1 tsp. Everything Bagel Seasoning

Microgreens

 

In a small bowl, smash the avocado. Add the lemon juice and a pinch of salt; mix well and set aside.

Poach your eggs (see notes) and, when they are sitting in the ice bath, toast your bread. Once your bread is toasted, spread the avocado on both slices and add the smoked salmon to each slice. Carefully transfer the poached eggs to their respective toasts. Hit with a splash of Kikkoman soy sauce and some cracked pepper; garnish with scallions and microgreens.  OR  Place slice of tomato on each toast, then hit the toasts with some everything bagel seasoning. Garnish with microgreens.

Wild Mushroom Toast with Brown Butter, Ricotta and Parsley 

Wild Mushroom Toast with Brown Butter, Ricotta and Parsley 

Wild Mushroom Toast with Brown Butter, Ricotta and Parsley

 

A simple mushroom toast with creamy ricotta, crispy caramelized wild mushrooms, brown butter and a splash of sherry vinegar. Top it with fresh parsley and parmesan for an easy appetizer.

4 1-inch thick slices crusty bread

6 T. olive oil, divided

kosher salt

freshly ground black pepper

3 garlic cloves, smashed and peeled

1 lb. mixed wild mushrooms, roughly chopped

1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, divided

2 T. butter, divided

4 tsp sherry vinegar, divided

1 C. ricotta

shaved parmesan, for topping

chopped fresh parsley, for topping

 

Preheat oven to 400°F.  Arrange bread on a parchment lined baking sheet, drizzle with oil and season with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat both sides. Bake until bread is golden on the edges but still springy in the center, about 8 minutes. Halve 1 garlic clove and rub the cut edges on the toasts. Set aside while you prepare the mushrooms. Heat a large skillet over high heat until very hot. Add 2 T. of olive oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add half of the mushrooms and spread into an even layer. Cook without stirring, about 3 minutes, or until bottoms have browned and caramelized.  Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, toss in one garlic clove and stir. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes.  Reduce heat to medium, add 1 T. of butter and 1/2 tsp. of thyme. Cook and stir mushrooms until butter begins to brown and smell nutty, about 5 minutes. Transfer mushrooms to a large bowl and discard garlic clove. Repeat process with remaining mushrooms, garlic, thyme and butter. To serve, divide ricotta across toasted bread slices and spoon mushrooms over top. Sprinkle a tsp. of sherry vinegar over each toast then top with shaved parmesan and parsley. Enjoy immediately.

Roasted Roma Tomatoes on Toast

Roasted Roma Tomatoes on Toast

8 Roma tomatoes (equal size, 1 1/2 lb. total), rinsed and cored

1 onion (about 8 oz.), peeled and finely chopped

3/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger

Lemon cheese (recipe follows)

Olive-oil toast (recipe follows)

About 2 cups arugula leaves, stemmed, rinsed, and drained

Salt

Cut tomatoes in half lengthwise. Lay halves cut side up in a single layer in an 8- by 12-inch oval or rectangular casserole (rim should be at least 1/2 in. higher than tomatoes). In a 1 1/2- to 2-quart pan, combine onion, vinegar, sugar, olive oil, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring often. Pour over tomatoes. Roast in a 400° oven (convection not recommended) until tomatoes are dark brown and sauce is browned and thickened (bubbles will be large and shiny), about 1 1/4 hours; baste tomatoes with sauce and onions about every 15 minutes at first, then more frequently as mixture begins to thicken, to avoid scorching. Use hot, warm, or at room temperature. Spread lemon cheese equally on oiled sides of the olive-oil toast slices. Set on plates and cover equally with arugula leaves. Spoon tomatoes and juices equally onto toast slices. Add salt to taste. Lemon Cheese: In a food processor or bowl, combine 1/3 cup cream cheese (at room temperature), 1/3 cup packed fresh chevre (goat cheese), 2 tablespoons milk, and 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel. Whirl or beat with a mixer on medium-high speed until blended. Olive-oil toast. Lay 8 slices of rustic white bread such as sourdough or ciabatta (about 3 by 4 in., cut about 1/2 in. thick) in a single layer in a shallow 10- by 15-inch pan. Bake in a 375° oven until lightly browned on the bottom, 5 to 6 minutes. Turn slices over and brush equally with about 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil. Continue baking until golden brown and crisp, 6 to 8 minutes longer. Use warm, or let cool on a rack.

Shrimp Toast (Ha Toe See)

Shrimp Toast (Ha Toe See)

1 tsp. Salt

1/2 lb. Shrimp; fresh; raw

2 T. Sherry

6 sl White sandwich bread

1 sm Egg; lightly beaten

2 Fresh pork fat pieces

2 Green onion stalks; chop

8 Water chestnuts

Sesame seeds

3 T. Cornstarch

Paprika

Leave bread out on a platter for 2 hours to dry. Trim crusts and cut each slice into 4 squares. Shell, devein and clean shrimp. Mince them into a fine, pulp like paste. Chop pork fat and water chestnuts until fine. Then mix with shrimp, green onions, salt, sherry, cornstarch and beaten egg. Mix well and spread mixture on the bread, making a slight mound on each piece. Sprinkle sesame seeds and paprika on the filling and press lightly so they adhere to the mixture. COOKING: Heat 4 cups of oil in the wok. Drop bread, shrimp side down, into oil and fry for 30 seconds. Turn and fry on the other side for another 30 seconds. (This is estimated time, since it depends on how hot the oil is. Use your judgment.) Both sides should be golden. Drain on paper towel and serve hot. DO AHEAD NOTES: Deep fry bread and mixture until it becomes a light beige color, then cool and freeze. To reheat, preheat oven at 350 degrees, place frozen toast in a single layer on a cookie sheet and heat for 12 minutes. If toast already is thawed, reheat for 5 to 6 minutes. The toast will become a deeper brown as its reheated. COMMENTS: Another way to serve this toast is by cutting each piece of bread diagonally into 2 triangles and spread on mixture. Top with a halved prawn in a lemon twist fashion and deep fry as usual. Arrange toast on a round platter, pin wheel fashion. Top with cherry tomatoes or parsley sprigs in the center of the pinwheel.

Three-Mushroom Saute Over Toast

Three-Mushroom Saute Over Toast

1/4 C. dried porcini mushrooms (about 1/4 oz.)
1 C. boiling water
1 T. olive oil
1/2 C. finely chopped onion
1 T. tomato paste
6 C. sliced button mushrooms (about 1 lb.)
3 C. thinly sliced shiitake mushroom caps (about 7 oz.)
1 tsp. all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
2 T. chopped fresh parsley
1 garlic clove, minced
1 garlic clove, halved
4 (1 1/2-oz.) slices peasant or country bread, toasted
1/2 C. (2 oz.) shredded fontina or fresh Parmesan cheese

Combine the porcini mushrooms and boiling water in a bowl; cover and let stand 30 minutes. Drain porcinis in a colander over a bowl, reserving liquid. Rinse and chop porcinis. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add onion; saut� 5 minutes or until lightly browned. Stir in tomato paste, and saute 30 seconds. Add porcini, button, and shiitake mushrooms, stirring to coat. Saut� 5 minutes or until mushrooms release moisture and darken, stirring once. Sprinkle mushroom mixture with flour; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Stir in reserved mushroom liquid; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil; cook 1 minute. Stir in parsley and minced garlic. Remove from heat. Rub garlic halves on one side of each toast slice; sprinkle each slice with 2 T. cheese. Top each with 3/4 C. mushroom mixture.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 264
Fat: 8.9g
Fiber: 4.1g

Basque Mushrooms Toasts

Basque Mushrooms Toasts

3 tsp. Olive Oil
1/2 lb. Mushrooms, thinly sliced
2 lg. Garlic cloves, chopped
1 tsp. All purpose flour
1/4 C. Dry Sherry
1/2 sm. dried red chili
1 C. Canned beef broth
1/4 C. Chopped fresh parsley

2 lg. 1/2-inch-thick French or sourdough bread slices
Olive Oil

Heat 3 tsp. oil in heavy medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until tender, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Add flour; stir 1 minute. Mix Sherry and chili; simmer 3 minutes. Add broth; cook until mixture thickens slightly, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Mix in parsley. Meanwhile preheat broiler. Brush bread with olive oil. Broil until golden.  Arrange 1 toast slice on each plate. Spoon mushroom sauce over and serve.

Oriental Sliced Steak on Toast

Oriental Sliced Steak on Toast

1/2 C. A.1. Original Steak Sauce
3 T. dry sherry
2 T. soy sauce
2 T. brown sugar
1 beef top round steak (1 lb.), thinly sliced
1/4 C. thinly sliced green onions
6 slices whole wheat light bread, toasted, halved diagonally

Mix steak sauce, sherry, soy sauce and brown sugar in nonmetal dish; add steak, stirring to coat pieces. Cover. Refrigerate 1 hour to marinate, stirring occasionally. Cook and stir steak mixture in large skillet on medium-high heat until no longer pink, about 10 minutes. Add 3 T. green onions; bring to boil. Spoon over toast; top with remaining green onions.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 298
Fat: 6.1g
Fiber: 5.3g

Asparagus-and-Spinach Toast with Fontina Cheese

Asparagus-and-Spinach Toast with Fontina Cheese

1 lb. asparagus spears
2 tsp. butter or stick margarine
1 C. (1/4-inch) diagonally sliced green onions
2/3 C. water
1/8 tsp. salt
4 C. chopped spinach
1 T. thinly sliced fresh basil
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 C. (1 oz.) shredded fontina or mozzarella cheese
4 (1 1/2-oz.) slices whole wheat bread, toasted

Snap off tough ends of asparagus. Melt butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions; saute 1 minute. Add asparagus, water, and salt; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes. Add spinach; simmer 3 minutes. Stir in basil and pepper. Sprinkle 1 T. cheese over each toast slice; cut each slice diagonally in half. Place 4 toast halves on each of 2 plates. Spoon 1 C. asparagus mixture over each serving.

Yield: 2 servings
Calories: 366
Fat: 12.4g
Fiber: 7.8g

Crostini with Gorganzola, Carmalized Onions, and Fig Jam

Crostini with Gorganzola, Carmalized Onions, and Fig Jam

Jam:
1 C. dried Black Mission Figs (about 6oz.)
1 tsp. Lemon Juice
2 C. Water
2 T. Maple Syrup
dash Salt

Onions:
Cooking Sptray
2 C. Vertically sliced Yellow Onion
1 tsp. Balsamic Vinegar
1/2 tsp. choped fresh Thyme
1/4 tsp. Salt
1/2 C. Water (if needed)

Remaining Ingredients:
1/2 C. (4oz) Gorganzola Cheese, softended
24 (1″thick) slices French Bread Baguette, toasted (about 12oz)
1 tsp. fresh Thyme Leaves

To prepare Jam, remove stems frmo figs. Place figs and juice in a food processor; process until figs are coarsely chopped. Place fig mixture, 2 C. water, syrup, and salt into a medium saucepan; bring toa boil. Reduce heat and summer 25 minutes, or until thick. Cool completely. To prepare onions, heat a large non-stick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium heat. Add onion, vinegar, thyme and salt, cover and cook 5 minutes. Uncover and cook 20 minutes, or until onion is deep golden brown, stirring occasionally. While onion cooks add 1/2 C. water, 1/4 C. at a time time, to keep onion from sticking to pan if necessary. Spread 1 tsp. cheese over each baguette slice. Top each slice with 1 tsp. onion mixture and 1 tsp. jam. Sprinkle evenly with Thyme leaves.

Yield: 12 servings
Serving Size: 2 Crostini

Calories: 108
Fat: 3.4g
Fiber: 2.4g

Bacon-Cheddar Toasts

Bacon-Cheddar Toasts

Bacon-Cheddar Toasts1 C. Mayo
2 Tsp. Worcestershire Sauce
1 C. (4oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 chopped onion
3/4 C. slivered almonds, chopped
6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled (and maybe one or five extra to eat while cooking…)
1 loaf of French bread

Combine mayo and Worcestershire sauce in a medium bowl. Stir in cheese, onion, almonds and bacon. Cut bread into 1/2 inch slices; spread with cheese mixture. Cut slices in half. Place on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 400 for 8-10 minutes or until bubbly. Makes 4 dozen.

Bruschetta with Tomatoes, Beans and Fresh Herbs

Bruschetta with Tomatoes, Beans and Fresh Herbs

For Topping:
1 C. seeded and diced ripe beefsteak tomato
3/4 C. well-drained cannellini beans (freshly cooked or canned)
1/4 C. seeded and diced cucumber
2 T. thinly sliced green (spring) onion
1 T. fresh oregano leaves or 1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1 T. chopped fresh basil or 1 1/2 tsp. dried basil
Freshly ground pepper

For Bruschetta:
8 slices country-style white or whole-wheat bread, each 2 1/2 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick
1 large clove garlic, cut in half
4 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

In a bowl, combine all the topping ingredients, including pepper to taste. Toss well, cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours or for up to 2 days to allow the flavors to blend. Preheat a broiler or prepare a fire in a charcoal grill. Arrange the bread slices on a rack on a broiler pan or on a grill rack and broil or grill for 2 minutes. Turn the bread slices over and continue to cook until golden, 1-2 minutes longer. Remove from the heat, rub a cut side of the garlic clove over one side of each warm bread slice and then brush with 1/2 tsp. the olive oil. Mound an equal amount of the topping on the garlic-rubbed side of each bread slice. Transfer to a platter and serve immediately.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 266
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 6g

Toast with Prosciutto Scrambled Eggs, Peppers & Pickled Onions

Toast with Prosciutto Scrambled Eggs, Peppers & Pickled Onions

Toast with Prosciutto Scrambled Eggs, Peppers & Pickled Onions

1 red onion

1/2 C. red wine vinegar

1/2 C. white sugar

Pinch of salt

 

Peel the onion. Cut in half and slice into very thin half-moon shapes. Bring the vinegar and sugar to a boil, add the salt and pour over the red onions; set aside for at least 2 hours.

 

3 T. olive oil

2 yellow onions, peeled, sliced thin

2 thyme sprigs

1/4 tsp. sugar

1/2 tsp. salt

 

In a large saute pan, add the olive oil, onions and thyme sprig, and cook over medium-high heat until just starting to color, about 10 minutes. Reduce the heat and cook slowly until caramelized, stirring every few minutes to ensure even browning (add a small amount of water, if needed). Add the sugar and salt and continue until most of the moisture has cooked off and the onions are dark and flavorful.

 

3 T. finely minced Prosciutto

5 eggs

1 T. cream

1 T. butter

1/4 C. caramelized onions, chopped

1 tsp. oregano, minced

Seed bread, sliced thick, grilled as needed

Olive oil as needed

Piquillo peppers, sliced as needed

Micro basil as needed

Pickled Red Onions, as needed

 

In a sauté pan, cook prosciutto over medium heat until crunchy and browned, and set aside.  Combine the eggs and cream in a small bowl and whisk until frothy. When ready to serve, heat butter over medium-high in a small sauté pan. Add eggs and cook, folding eggs occasionally, until slightly cooked, about 2 minutes. Add the caramelized onions, prosciutto and oregano and stir to combine. Remove from the heat and keep warm.   Brush the bread with olive oil, then grill the bread on both sides, top with a little of the scrambled eggs, a few slices of the piquillo peppers, a few pickled red onions and micro basil.