Beet Bruschetta with Goat Cheese and Basil

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400F

Step 2

In a medium put, cover halved beets with water and boil until just tender, about 20-30 minutes.

Step 3

In the meantime, slice baguette into 1/2 inch slices at a diagonal. Brush both sides with olive oil, sprinkle with a little salt and place on a sheet pan in a 400 F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until very crisp. Set aside.

Step 4

Place cream cheese and goat cheese in a bowl and warm in a microwave until just soft enough to combine easily with a fork. ( I place the bowl in my toaster oven on low). Mix with a fork until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Feel free to add some fresh chopped herbs ( basil or parsley) Set aside.

Step 5

When beets are fork-tender, drain pot, refill with cold water and slip skins off the cooked beets under running cold water using your hands. Dice into very small 1/3 inch cubes and place in medium bowl.

Step 6

Add finely chopped onion, salt, pepper, sugar, olive oil and balsamic -stir to combine. Taste, adjusting. You want this be flavorful and juicy.

Step 7

Assemble: Spread a little goat cheese mixture on each bruschetta creating a “trough” ( to hold beet mixture in place) and top with a Tablespoon of beet mixture. Garnish with a few basil ribbons. It’s really nice to serve when the goat cheese is still a touch warm. Serve on a white platter to show it off, or a rustic cutting board.