Spicy Sun-Dried Tomato Goat Cheese Canapés
Experience a burst of flavor with these Spicy Sun-Dried Tomato Goat Cheese Canapés, an innovative blend of Mediterranean ingredients infused with a delightful kick. Inspired by the vibrant culinary scene of California, this appetizer showcases a creamy sun-dried tomato spread layered atop crispy baguette slices, all topped with tangy goat cheese and a dash of paprika. Perfect for gatherings or as a sophisticated snack, these toasts marry rich flavors with a spicy twist and are sure to impress your guests. An ideal start to any meal, these canapés are both delicious and visually appealing, making them a must-try for any home cook!
8-10
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
sun-dried tomatoes
1.5 ounces (If dried, rehydrate in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain. Otherwise, use oil-packed.)
olive oil
3/4 cup (Divide into 1/4 cup for the spread and 1/2 cup for brushing the bread.)
garlic cloves
2 (Minced.)
fresh parsley
2 tablespoons (Minced.)
basil leaves
5 leaves (Chopped.)
green onion
1 (Chopped.)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (Ground.)
salt
1.5 teaspoons (Divided.)
sugar
1.5 teaspoons (Divided.)
goat cheese
4 ounces (Crumble for topping.)
French baguette
1 (Sliced into 1/4 inch slices.)
cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons (Ground.)
paprika
1 teaspoon (Ground.)
garlic powder
1.5 teaspoons (Ground.)
Instructions
1
If using dried sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrate them by placing in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2
In a medium bowl, combine the rehydrated (or oil-packed) sun-dried tomatoes, 1/4 cup olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, basil, green onion, pepper, salt, and a pinch of sugar. Stir well, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3
After refrigeration, transfer the mixture to a food processor and blend until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure an even consistency. Set it aside.
4
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F. In a separate bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup of olive oil with cayenne pepper, salt, sugar, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder until well combined.
5
Arrange the sliced French baguette on a baking sheet, and brush the tops lightly with the cayenne oil mixture to enhance flavor and add crunch.
6
Bake the bread slices in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until they are crisp and golden, turning halfway through for even toasting. Let them cool on the baking sheet.
7
To serve, place a generous dollop of the sun-dried tomato spread on each toasted baguette slice, then top with crumbled goat cheese and a sprinkle of additional paprika, if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spicy Sun-Dried Tomato Goat Cheese Canapés?
They are a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer featuring a creamy sun-dried tomato spread on crispy baguette slices, topped with tangy goat cheese and a spicy kick of paprika and cayenne.
How do I rehydrate sun-dried tomatoes?
Place the dried tomatoes in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain them before use.
Can I use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, you can use oil-packed tomatoes; simply skip the rehydration step and proceed with the recipe.
How long should the tomato mixture marinate?
The mixture should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld properly.
What ingredients are in the sun-dried tomato spread?
The spread consists of sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, basil, green onion, pepper, salt, and a pinch of sugar.
What type of bread is recommended?
A French baguette is recommended, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds.
How do I prepare the bread for toasting?
Brush the baguette slices with a mixture of olive oil, cayenne pepper, salt, sugar, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
What is the baking temperature for the bread?
The bread should be baked at a low temperature of 200 degrees F.
How long does it take to toast the baguette slices?
It takes approximately 1 hour in the oven until they are crisp and golden.
Do I need to turn the bread during baking?
Yes, turn the bread slices halfway through the baking time to ensure even toasting.
Can I use a food processor for this recipe?
Yes, a food processor is used to blend the marinated tomato mixture until it is smooth and creamy.
Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, it has a spicy twist due to the inclusion of cayenne pepper and paprika.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 8 to 10 servings.
What kind of cheese is used for the topping?
Crumbled goat cheese is used to top the canapés.
Can I make the tomato spread in advance?
Yes, the spread needs to marinate for at least 4 hours, and can be made a day ahead for better flavor.
What fresh herbs are needed?
You will need fresh parsley and fresh basil leaves.
How do I assemble the canapés?
Place a dollop of the tomato spread on each toasted slice and top with crumbled goat cheese.
Can I substitute the goat cheese?
While goat cheese provides a specific tang, you could substitute it with feta or cream cheese if needed.
What makes these canapés innovative?
They blend traditional Mediterranean ingredients with a California-inspired spicy flavor profile.
How much olive oil is required in total?
A total of 3/4 cup of olive oil is used, divided between the spread and the bread brushing.
Is there sugar in the recipe?
Yes, 1.5 teaspoons of sugar are used, divided between the spread and the bread seasoning to balance the flavors.
What is the texture of the finished spread?
The spread should be smooth and creamy after being processed.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Olive oil is recommended for its flavor, but you could use a neutral oil if preferred.
What should I do if the spread is too thick?
You can add a small extra splash of olive oil while processing to reach your desired consistency.
Can these be served cold?
Yes, the components are usually cooled or refrigerated, making them a great room-temperature appetizer.
How should I store leftover spread?
Store any leftover sun-dried tomato spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Is the garlic raw in the spread?
Yes, minced raw garlic is marinated with the tomatoes to provide a sharp flavor.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are preferred for color and brightness, but dried can be used in smaller quantities if necessary.
What is the role of garlic powder?
Garlic powder is used specifically in the cayenne oil mixture to season the baguette slices.
Are these suitable for a party?
Absolutely, they are designed to be visually appealing and easy-to-eat finger foods for gatherings.