Warm Cannellini Bean Crostini

By brenie_shydee

Ingredients

• 2 cloves garlic; 1 sliced and 1 minced
• 1 - 15 or 19 oz. can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 c water
• 3 tsp olive oil, divided
• 1 tsp tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• Pinch of crushed red pepper
• 1/4 c coarsely chopped watercress
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 16 1/2 " thick slices of baguettes

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat oven 400 degrees.

In saucepan, combine sliced garlic, beans, water, 1 tsp olive oil, tomato paste, bay leaf and crushed red pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer, stir occasionally until thickened (approx 20-25 minutes). Discard bay leaf.

Transfer bean mixture to food processor and puree until smooth.

In skillet, heat remaining 2 tsp olive oil over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add bean puree and watercress, stir until heated (3-5 minutes). Remove and season with lemon juice, salt and pepper.

Arrange baguette slices on baking sheet and bake 8-10 minutes turning once, or until lightly toasted.

Spread crostini on each slice.