Roasted Grape and Walnut Crostini

A couple of bunches of grapes, some walnuts, balsamic, soft cheese and a loaf of ciabatta and you’ve got the perfect party canapé.

Ingredients:

Candied Walnuts

2 cups walnuts

3/4 cup white sugar

2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Roasted grapes

2 large bunches of grapes (we love Dole)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

4 sprigs of fresh thyme

Pinch of both salt and pepper

To serve

200 grams soft goats cheese

1 large ciabatta loaf

2 sprigs of fresh thyme

Salt and pepper

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 160ºC.
2. Place the sugar and balsamic vinegar in a saucepan and cook over a medium heat until sugar has completely dissolved. Add the walnuts and stir until nuts are well coated.
3. Transfer nuts onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until walnuts are golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
4. Increase oven temperature to 180ºC.
5. In a large bowl, toss all roasted grape ingredients then place in a lined roasting dish. Roast for 25 – 30 minutes or until grapes are softened and juicy but still remain whole.
6. Cut ciabatta loaf into 1cm thick slices. Drizzle with olive oil and grill on both sides until just golden brown.
7. Smear goats cheese onto each piece of toast, top with roasted grapes, chopped candied walnuts, fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of salt and pepper.