Teatime Treats

By Heather Poling

Roasted Grape and Brie Crostini

Crostini, a simple appetizer meaning little crusts in Italian, is a toasted bread topped with almost any combination of flavors. Crostini developed from the tradition of Italian peasants using stale bread to scoop up food. The bread was often oiled and toasted to make it more palatable. Today it’s evolved into a sophisticated finger food that is perfect for your tea table!

For our recipe today, sweet roasted grapes are paired with creamy brie cheese then finished with honey and Maldon Sea Salt. The combination of ingredients creates a rich contrast of flavors and textures for a perfect bite. If you are feeling creative, try sprinkling some fresh thyme or lightly toasted walnuts on top.

Roasted Grape Crostini with Maldon Sea Salt and Honey

Ingredients:

• 2 baguettes
• Honey
• Maldon sea salt
• Brie cheese
• 2 or 3 bunches of black seedless grapes

Directions:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F. Remove the grapes from the stems rinse and pat dry. Spread the grapes in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until softened and beginning to burst. Set aside to cool slightly.
• Toast the crostini bread. Arrange baguette slices on baking sheets in a single layer. Toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through, until lightly golden and crisp.
• To assemble, top each baguette slice with a thin slice of brie cheese and a spoonful of roasted grapes. 
• To finish, top each crostini with a light drizzle of honey and sprinkle with a pinch of Maldon Sea salt. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!