This appetizer is the perfect appetizer to serve your guests. Not only is it yummy and delicious, but it is healthy and nutritious too. It's made on a toasted baguette with pesto, homemade walnut cream, sun-dried tomatoes and walnuts on top.
3/4 c. California walnuts
2/3 c. water
1 clove garlic
3/4 c. shaved Parmesan cheese (1 1/2 oz.)
1/4 t. sea salt, or to taste
24 diagonally cut baguette slices
4 t. olive oil
Toppings:
1/4 c. basil pesto
2 tablespoons minced sun-dried tomatoes, preferably smoked
1/2 c. coarsely chopped California walnuts, toasted
snipped fresh basil, for garnish
Place walnuts, water and garlic in a small blender; blend until light and fluffy, scraping down the sides, as needed. Add Parmesan cheese and salt; blend until fairly smooth. (May be prepared 1 day in advance and stored tightly covered in the refrigerator.)
When ready to bake, preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Brush one side of each baguette slice with equal amounts of oil. Bake 8 - 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
Top each slice with about 1 t. pesto and 1 1/2 t. walnut cream.
Sprinkle with sun-dried tomatoes and walnuts. Garnish with basil.
Makes 24 pieces.