Seasonal Delight:: Fig Croistini

If you've meandered through your local farmer's market or grocery store recently, you might have noticed that we are officially in the thick of fig season. Nicole, my web-manager, even has a fig tree in her backyard. She asked me what else to do with figs that wouldn't heat-up the kitchen too much (it's still very hot in Atlanta, after all!).I passed along this quick and easy appetizer for fig and goat cheese crostini. She assured me it was a fantastic recommendation. While this snack makes an incredible appetizer or even breakfast, I also love the idea of serving this as a light, unexpected dessert at the end of a meal. It's a tried and true recipe perfect for any occasion.

Goat Cheese and Fig CrostiniServes 10

You will need:- 20 small figs cut in half, lengthwise- 1 loaf of French bread sliced into 1/2 in slices (makes about 20 slices)- 1/2 cup olive oil- 8 oz. soft artisan goat cheese, at room temperature- 1/4 cup lemon honey- 40 Marcona Almonds- 1 teaspoon cracked pepperTo prepare:Preheat the oven to 350 FCrostini: Lay the bread slices on to a cookie sheet with a brush coat the top of the slices with olive oil. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the slices are golden brown. Cool the crostini.  Spread 2 tablespoons of goat cheese on the crostini, top with 2 half figs, and add 2 almonds on either side of the figs. Place on a platter and repeat with the rest of the crostinis.Once all the crostinis are on the platter, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with cracked pepper and serve.