Festive Chorizo and Cotija Crostini

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 ounces Spanish chorizo, finely diced
• 4 ounces Cotija cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, finely diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Method

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toast for 5-7 minutes minutes, or until golden and crisp.
2. While the bread toasts, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced chorizo and cook for 5-7 minutes minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy and rendered. Drain excess fat.
3. In a small bowl, combine the diced roasted red peppers, chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and smoked paprika.
4. Once the toasted baguette slices are ready, spread a generous spoonful of the crispy chorizo onto each crostini.
5. Top each crostini with crumbled Cotija cheese.
6. Spoon a small amount of the roasted red pepper and cilantro mixture over the cheese.
7. Optionally, sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra festive kick.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy the gourmet flavors.