Toasties Cheddar w/Bacon and Almonds

By KeyIngredient

Among every gathering are “plain food” people—usually kids—who are pleased only with the familiar. Here’s a nibble for them, but one that is interesting enough for all.



Wine: Chardonnay

Ingredients

• 3 to 4 slices bacon
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) toasted sliced or slivered almonds, divided
• 2 cups (500 mL) grated medium or old cheddar
• 4 tbsp (60 mL) chopped fresh parsley, divided
• 1/4 cup (50 mL) sour cream
• 1/8 to 1/4 tsp (0.5 to1 mL) cayenne
• 1 baguette or other crusty bread

Preparation

Step 1

1. Cut bacon crosswise into ¼-inch (5-mm) slices. Heat a frying pan over medium heat until warm; add bacon. Fry for 8 to 10 minutes or until bacon bits are browned and crispy. Remove bacon bits to a paper towel; pour off and discard most of fat in the pan.

2. Return the pan to heat; add onions. Fry onions for 5 to 8 minutes or until lightly golden. Drain on paper towel with bacon; cool.

3. Meanwhile, chop ¼ cup (50 mL) almonds. In a small bowl, toss cheddar with 2 tbsp (25 mL) parsley, onions, bacon and chopped almonds. Stir in sour cream and cayenne. (If making ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to a day.)

4. When ready to serve, preheat broiler. Slice baguette diagonally into ½-inch thick (1-cm) pieces. Lightly toast 1 side of slices. Turn over, spread untoasted side with cheese mixture; broil 2 to 3 minutes or until melted and lightly golden. Serve garnished with remaining parsley and almonds.


Makes 18 hearty nibbles