The Black & Blue Bite

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch thick rounds (about 24 slices)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing
• 4 ounces filet mignon, trimmed and cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 4 ounces blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort), softened
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store
• bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped, for garnish

Method

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush both sides of the baguette slices lightly with olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet. Toast for 8 minutes
2. minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the blue cheese spread: In a small bowl, combine the softened blue cheese, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth and creamy. Season with a pinch of black pepper.
4. Sear the steak: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small skillet over medium
5. high heat. Season the cubed filet mignon with salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minutes
6. minutes, stirring occasionally, until seared on all sides and cooked to medium
7. rare. Remove from heat and set aside.
8. Assemble the crostini: Spread a generous layer of the blue cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
9. Top each crostini with a few pieces of the seared steak.
10. Drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the steak and cheese. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chives before serving.