Champagne and (Amazing!) Crostini
It seems we are all in a Champagne or sparkling wine mood this week and I’m going to continue that theme for Happy Hour at Home. You may have a bottle or two left from holiday celebrations or perhaps received a bottle as a gift or it might just be a good time to pick up one (or two…) more bottles while prices are still discounted for the holidays. One of the thing to remember about sparkling wines is that they are meant to be consumed when they are released. With few exceptions they will not improve with aging. This is especially true of non-vintage sparklers which comprises the vast majority of the market.
So, if you don’t have something on hand take a look at Robert’s Champagne post or recent Wine Blogging Wednesday summaries (WBW #25: Champagne, WBW#28 Sparklers other than Champagne Part 1 and Part 2) for an idea of something to pick up.
And for our appetizer I’m going to share something that was a huge hit at a holiday party I recently hosted, Crostini with Gorgonzola, Honey and Walnuts. I could have doubled the amount I’d made and still run short, I think. The combination of flavors is really wonderful! It’s based on a recipe by Giada De Laurentiis but I made a few slight changes to it.
Crostini with Gorgonzola, Honey and Walnuts
- Olive oil
- One long baguette sliced into 1/3″ slices (cut on diagonal) – about 30 slices
- 8 oz creamy Gorgonzola, coarsely crumbled and at room temperature
- 2/3 - 1 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped
- Approximately 3 Tbsp honey
Brush the baguette slices with oil and broil on one side until golden. (Can be made ahead and stored in airtight container.)
Mix Gorgonzola with walnuts in a small bowl, smooshing the cheese until the nuts are incorporated. Spread the mixture on the baguette slices.
Put in pre-heated 375°F oven and bake for about 8 minutes or until cheese melts. When there is just a minute or so left, put the honey in a microwave safe container and microwave on high for 10 to 20 seconds - just long enough to make it easy to drizzle.
Arrange the crostini on a platter, then drizzle with honey.
