Goat Cheese Toasts Recipe

• Difficulty: Easy
• Servings: 12
• Nutritional Information Per Serving (1 of 12): Calories: 201; Total Fat: 12 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 2 g; Protein: 7 g; Cholesterol: 19 mg; Sodium: 380 mg
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• 36 slices of baguette bread, each 1/2 inch thick
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 ounces soft, fresh goat cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme leaves
• 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest
• Salt and coarsely ground black or multicolored peppercorns
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pitted Sicilian green or Kalamata olives
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives

1. Preheat your oven to 375F and get ready to create irresistible crostini that will wow your guests!
2. Arrange the baguette slices evenly on two sturdy large baking sheets. Brush each with olive oil and bake until lightly golden and perfectly crisp, about 15 minutes. These crunchy bases are the secret to every bite!
3. In a food processor, blend the goat cheese and cream cheese until irresistibly smooth and creamy. Add parsley, thyme, and lemon zest, then pulse just to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Generously spread this zesty cheese mixture over the warm toasts, sprinkle with chopped olives, chives, and extra pepper. Arrange on a platter and serve immediatelythe fresh flavors will have everyone reaching for more!
4. Make-Ahead Tip: Prep the crostini and cheese mixture up to two days ahead for stress-free entertaining. Store crostini airtight at room temperature and refrigerate the cheese covered. Let it soften at room temp for about an hour before spreadingeasy perfection every time!