Pear Recipes:
Balsamic-Glazed Pear and
Goat Cheese Crostini

Makes 24 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 pears
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 24 baguette rounds, toasted
• ½ cup spreadable goat cheese
• ½ cup slivered almonds, toasted
• Ground black pepper, if desired

Directions:

• Slice pears stem-side-up into 12 quarter-inch width vertical planks. Cut large slices in half lengthwise for a total of 48 slices.
• Heat vinegar, butter, and honey in large frying pan over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until reduced by half, about 2 tablespoons. Add pear slices and continue cooking for 1 minute, turning once.
• Place 2 pear slices on each baguette round and top with 1 teaspoon goat cheese. Sprinkle almonds over cheese and garnish with fresh pepper, if desired.
• To toast almonds, place in heavy frying pan and toast over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes or until tan with toasted aroma.

Submitted by: USA Pears