I have a theory that people generally tend to like the holidays nearest their birthdays better than most. And since my birthday just passed on Sunday, I have to admit that the Fourth of July is one of my very favorites. What could be better than a day off in the warm summer heat to eat outside, hang out with friends and family and watch fireworks light up the sky?
Like all of the other holidays this year, the 4th snuck up before I knew it. Did you forget you needed a contribution to the family picnic or friend’s pool party? I whipped up this tasty little appetizer to take special advantage of the fresh summer veggies available while still being easy to make and completely suitable for sharing with a crowd. Turn on some of your favorite summer party tunes to bop along to (May I recommend Shooter Jenning’s 4th of July?) and these will be done in no time!
Lemony Goat Cheese and Summer Veggie Crostini
For the crostini:
1 baguette
olive oil
salt and pepper
garlic, optional
For the topping:
1 small log of goat cheese (mine was 5 oz)
2 heaping tablespoons of greek yogurt (I used Fage 2%, which is my Very Favorite yogurt. It’s delicious, creamy and I can easily use it to substitue sour cream in any recipe for a healthier spin.)
juice of one lemon
assorted summer veggies (I had summer corn, cherry tomatoes and sweet peppers on hand, but later realized I had some zucchini in the fridge. I roasted it up in a cast iron grill pan and it was excellent for these crostini.)
1. If you have a toaster oven, I find that using the toast function makes crostini quickly. Otherwise, preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. Slice your baguette into slices approximately half an inch thick. Brush with olive oil and (if desired), slice a garlic clove in half and rub it across the top of the slice right where you’ve just brushed the olive oil for a little extra oomph. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Toast the slices or pop them into the oven on a baking sheet for about 15 minutes until golden brown.
4, Blend together goat cheese, greek yogurt and lemon juice until smooth.
5. Wait for your crostini to cool slightly, then spread your goat cheese mixture onto each slice and top with your summer veggies!
Happy Fourth of July, all!
