Pea and goat cheese crostini

Pea and Goat Cheese Crostini with Lemon and Mint

Ingredients:

• 1 French baguette, sliced into 12-15 rounds

• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas

• 4 oz goat cheese (softened)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for brushing)

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 garlic clove (optional)

• A few extra mint leaves for garnish

• Chili flakes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the crostini base:

   • Preheat the oven to 190°C. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.

   • Lightly brush each slice with olive oil and bake for 8-10 minutes, until golden and crisp. For extra flavor, you can rub the warm crostini with the cut side of a garlic clove after toasting.

2. Make the pea mixture:

   • If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to retain their color. If using frozen peas, thaw them and pat them dry.

   • In a food processor or using a fork for a more rustic texture, mash the peas with 1 tbsp of olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped mint. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the crostini:

   • Spread a layer of softened goat cheese onto each toasted baguette slice.

   • Spoon a generous amount of the pea mixture on top of the goat cheese.

4. Garnish and serve:

   • Garnish each crostini with a small mint leaf and a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.

   • Serve immediately for the best texture.

These Pea and Goat Cheese Crostini are fresh, creamy, and bright with a hint of mint and citrus!