BREAD is a simple vehicle for creativity in the kitchen. Call it bruschetta, crostini, or an open-faced sandwich, and there are endless topping combinations—nothing you want to try should be off limits. I love to play around with mixtures, especially when I have ingredients that need to be used in the fridge. By stepping outside of your comfort zone and away from the basic butters and jellies, you’ll be surprised at the color and flavor you can bring to the bite with simple mixtures and layers of sweet and savory fruits, veggies, spices, cheeses, etc… Here are a few ideas to try.

The G.O.A.T.
Caramelized onion, whipped goat cheese and balsamic glaze

Whipped goat cheese is made simply by adding a little whole milk to crumbled goat cheese. Mixed thoroughly it becomes a spreadable consistency. A shortcut for a balsamic glaze is a prepared store-bought version. Caramelize the onions according to your favorite recipe.

The Radish
Herbed butter with sliced radish

Softened butter mixed with fresh herbs such as parsley and dill, you choose! Thinly slice a radish and layer on top!

The A/B Pear
Apple butter, brie, sliced pears topped with a honey drizzle and candied walnuts

Absolutely as simple as it sounds.

The Smokin’ Crab.
Smoked cayenne cream cheese topped with Crab Salad

Soften cream cheese and add smoked cayenne powder. (I used Autumn’s Harvest Smoked Cayenne Powder, see page___). I like to make my own crab salad with lump crab, lime juice, minced garlic, diced red pepper, and fresh parsley, mixed well.
*There are endless flavor combinations to make a yummy cream cheese spread by adding your favorite seasonings, herbs, veggies, etc.

The Tuna-Mata
Tuna and Kalamata Olives

Tuna (fresh or canned), kalamata olives, and olive oil pureed (using food processor) with shaved cucumber and feta crumbles.