Friday, December 30, 2011

Cranberry and Blue Cheese Crostini


I hope you’ve been enjoying the holidays and have found some time to relax a little. We’ve been on the road between homes and are back in sunny Florida where we’ll ring in the new year.

Our condo is having a little festive get-together around the pool for New Years Eve and I plan to take a Cranberry and Blue Cheese Crostini as an appetizer. The recipe is inspired by my friend Jann of Traveling Food Lady who recently featured a Honey Rosemary Cherry and Blue Cheese Crostini. Jann owns a touring company in Italy & France and has a wonderful blog. She recently took a group of ladies on a fabulous trip where they stayed in four star hotels and spent their time shopping, doing food and wine tastings (among other things) in the hill top villages all over Tuscany. Sounds like a dream trip doesn’t it?

I took Jann’s crostini idea and replaced her cherry mixture with my winey French cranberry sauce, and voila, a super easy holiday appetizer.

You could also serve the crostini as a chic little first course to a grander meal.  My French cranberry sauce recipe has appeared several times on my blog and all you need to complete the recipe is to toast some slices of a crusty French baguette, top the toast with fresh arugula, then a dab of cranberry sauce, and finish with a slice of good blue cheese and a crank of freshly ground black pepper. A little more cranberry sauce doesn't hurt on top either. For a festive touch, garnish with a sprig of holly from your garden or the florist.


I hope 2012 brings each of you good health, much happiness, and lots of delicious food. This year, as always, I will be making the same two New Year’s resolutions I make every year:

1 – Remember to think before speaking. Feelings are everywhere – be gentle.
2 – Do not eat anything in the kitchen while standing up. (Excludes tasting while I cook of course!)

Happy 2012 everyone. I’m curious - do you make new years’ resolutions or do you say forget it, they’re not worth it?


From the archives  - Ideas on how to Ring in the New Year with Good Luck

I will be linking this recipe to Foodie Friday at Designs by Gollum and Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound.
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71 comments:

  1. Rosa's Yummy YumsDecember 30, 2011 at 7:20 AM

    Marvelous crostini! Really scrumptious.

    Best wishes for 2012!

    Cheers,

    Rosa

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  2. From the KitchenDecember 30, 2011 at 7:26 AM

    We won't be eating this beside a pool (unless it's the indoor one at the "Y") but I will be putting it on our menu as I have all the ingredients already on hand. I'll be using some leftover cranberry chutney instead of your delicious-sounding French version (have bookmarked it as I have cranberries in the freezer) and a lovely Stilton that we received from Santa.

    Yes, I make resolutions. I also keep them--for, at least, a few days.

    Happy New Year!!

    Best,
    Bonnie

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  3. Big DudeDecember 30, 2011 at 7:32 AM

    I'm happy to hear your travels all went safely. The crostini looks fabulous - how long did it take to get the sauce to drip off the end just right? I can't imagine not eating while standing in the kitchen and I often subscribe to your last photo. Bev and I wish you and Meakin a great new year and we hope to see you soon.

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  4. BrendaDecember 30, 2011 at 8:19 AM

    We were in Florida last week and it was fabulous - low 80s every day! Well, it was fabulous as long as you weren't a Floridian - they all wanted colder weather for Christmas! :) This looks so festive. My eyes just feast on the pretty holiday colors. Not eat while standing up in the kitchen?? I can't imagine! You may have to do a post on that one. I taste taste taste! Of course, I'd probably lose 10 pounds if I ceased and desisted that practice. I do make New Year's resolutions, I always get so inspired to start fresh. I feel the effort makes me a better person even if I don't achieve them all the way till Dec. 31st. Happy New Year Sam!

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  5. Karen thisoldhouse2.comDecember 30, 2011 at 8:33 AM

    YUM! and simple. A winning combination.

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  6. Penny from Enjoying The Simple ThingsDecember 30, 2011 at 8:50 AM

    That looks soooo good!

    No resolutions here...
    Hugs,
    Penny

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  7. KatDecember 30, 2011 at 9:18 AM

    Happy New year to you Sam. Think before speaking sounds like a good one. My new year's resolution for last year was learning how to fold a king sized fitted sheet to where it looked half-way decent!! That's about as serious as I get with the N.Y. resolutions! LOL! I did master that too, although it takes a queen sized bed to accomplish it.

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  8. ClaudiaDecember 30, 2011 at 9:38 AM

    I saw these and noted these with the cherries. And it will get made - but right now - I have the cranberries and blue cheese and this is perfect for the quiet Eve I am planning with husband. We can control the portions! And usher in the New Year with style! Happy 2012, Sam!

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  9. Kathy WalkerDecember 30, 2011 at 9:48 AM

    I am ready for some champagne and your amazing crostini! Looks wonderful and I love the flavor combination.

    I don't make too many resolutions...I tend to set goals for myself instead.

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  10. Nancy SimpsonDecember 30, 2011 at 10:58 AM

    Sam, you still have the best blog. I'm ready now to quit mine after so many dreadful problems and lack of interest. There is a huge difference between food and poetry, not for me, but for most humans. There are few of us on the planet who have to have poetry to stay alive.

    Still, I salute you, wish I could see you sometimes, and most of all, I wish you the best new year in 2012.

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  11. La Table De NanaDecember 30, 2011 at 10:58 AM

    Perfect colors..Have fun by the pool ringing in the New Year~ All the best to you and your beau:)

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  12. Ocean Breezes and Country SneezesDecember 30, 2011 at 11:21 AM

    If I had to I could eat that appetizer standing on my head! LOL!!! It looks delicious! I'll give your cranberry jam a try!

    Love your resolutions! I try to make a healthful and humane resolution each year! Still need time to think of what to focus on . . . there's too many!

    Happy New Year, I enjoyed my visit today! Have fun poolside!

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  13. Angie's RecipesDecember 30, 2011 at 1:01 PM

    omg...those crostini look fantastic! Blue cheese and cranberry sauce are great together.
    Like the song by Alan Jackson...used to listen to lots of country..these days more Jazz.
    Gosh...the 2nd ny resolution...I should really stop that too..I do that all the time in the kitchen.
    Happy New Year!

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  14. DDecember 30, 2011 at 2:24 PM

    I have blue cheese and some red wine cranberry sauce in the freezer. Thank you for the great idea for tomorrow evening. Sam, Happy New Year to you and Meakin. Pete and I wish you the best in 2012.

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  15. SplenderosaDecember 30, 2011 at 2:57 PM

    OK, I'm definitely doing this over the weekend. Sending love, Sam....

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  16. The Quintessential MagpieDecember 30, 2011 at 3:26 PM

    This sounds so delicious, Sam! I can't wait to try it. I have cranberries in the refrigerator. I guess I need to go get some blue cheese!

    I no longer make resolutions because I don't keep them. I try to make resolutions throughout the year, though.

    I have missed you SO much. I'm pretty tired from the holidays, but I am going to try and spend this next week catching up on my visiting. Thank you for always being such a good blog friend, Sam. I hope you and Meakin have a wonderful 2012!

    xo,

    Sheila :-)

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  17. The Quintessential MagpieDecember 30, 2011 at 3:27 PM

    Oops! I mean bleu cheese. ;-)

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  18. FoodiewifeDecember 30, 2011 at 4:15 PM

    I love crostinis. This one is so festive, and the sweet-tart of the cranberries must be a lovely contrast to the "bite" of the blue cheese. As far as New Year's Resolutions...ha! I try to set goals that are realistic-- like, cook more veggies, exercise more. Most importantly, I try to work on balancing my time best, between working, marriage, parenting and having fun. So far, so good.

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  19. SavoringTime in the KitchenDecember 30, 2011 at 5:49 PM

    Sounds like a wonderful (and warm) get-together, Sam! I'd love to try one of your crostini. Blue cheese and cranberries are two favorites and the combination sounds terrific.

    Have a wonderful time and a happy and healthy 2012 to you!

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  20. Pat @ Mille Fiori FavoritiDecember 30, 2011 at 8:43 PM

    Your crostini look so appetizing, Sam. I love both bleu cheese and cranberries!

    Wishing you a very happy new year!

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  21. The Fashionable TravelerDecember 30, 2011 at 9:11 PM

    Happy New Year! What a pretty idea. My Aunt Dorothy makes the most wonderful cranberry sauce, I love the idea of pairing with the blue cheese. Can't wait to try!

    -Catherine

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  22. AnnesphamilyDecember 30, 2011 at 9:42 PM

    Hi Sam! Happy New Year to you and yours! This looks so delicious. We love blue cheese and cranberries! What a terrific holiday treat! Thanks to you! HPS Anne

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  23. Culinary CollageDecember 30, 2011 at 9:52 PM

    These look like a great appetizer!!! Happy New Year!

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  24. LuiDecember 30, 2011 at 10:01 PM

    Looks really yummy!
    I love my toast with gorgonzola pesto.

    Have a fun and fulfilling 2012!

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  25. ~Country Lady~December 30, 2011 at 10:23 PM

    This sounds delish! Happy New Year.

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  26. J.Rylie.CDecember 30, 2011 at 11:47 PM

    Looks delicious!

    Please come and see my pink. Have a happy new year!

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  27. LaVerneDecember 31, 2011 at 12:17 AM

    your crostini uses three of my very favorites...sounds like a lovely combination of flavors. Enjoy your Florida New year's Day. to answer your question about resolutions...I count my Blessings instead and resolve to repeat and increase those things that bring the most joy...sort of like how pink Saturday focuses us on the positive.

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  28. Valérie (France)December 31, 2011 at 2:09 AM

    Ce sont des associations que j'adore
    Je te souhaite un excellent réveillon et bonne année 2012…

    Valérie.

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  29. Mary JamesDecember 31, 2011 at 7:33 AM

    Bonjour Sam...these look great and I have all ingredients on hand. For some reason I am not getting notifications of your posts....need to figure out why. I have missed reading My Carolina Kitchen.

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  30. My Little SpaceDecember 31, 2011 at 7:53 AM

    Happy New Year to you & your family too, Sam. May all good things coming to you. Enjoy & have a fabulous time.
    Best wishes
    Kristy

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  31. Gloria BakerDecember 31, 2011 at 8:20 AM

    Happy New Year and the best for 2012 dear Sam!!! gloria

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  32. Sprigs of RosemaryDecember 31, 2011 at 8:22 AM

    I'm sure these taste as scrumptious as they look! So festive!

    Hope you're planning a nice celebration for this evening. I only have one NY resolution (aside from the usual losing the extra pounds I put on over the holidays) and that is to learn to bake bread. Wish me luck and have a happy, happy new year!

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  33. Miz HelenDecember 31, 2011 at 8:23 AM

    Hi Sam,
    This looks like a great way to start a party. Wishing you and your family a very Happy New Year and Abundant Blessings ing 2012!
    Miz Helen

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  34. T.W. Barritt at Culinary TypesDecember 31, 2011 at 8:45 AM

    For me, blue cheese is the perfect way to ring in the New Year! Happy New Year, Sam and all the best for 2012! Cheers - T.W.

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  35. Brenda Kay LedfordDecember 31, 2011 at 11:58 AM

    I've always loved cranberry and bluecheese. Look so good.
    Happy New Year!

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  36. ChrisDecember 31, 2011 at 3:09 PM

    What kind of blue cheese did you use? It looks to die for, with it's thick blue veins of flavor.

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  37. Heather @ girlichef.comDecember 31, 2011 at 4:01 PM

    Yes, that is a total dream trip! And these crostini are just as dreamy...just thinking of the combination of cranberries and blue cheese makes my mouth water. Happy New Year to you, Sam :D

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  38. Karen (Back Road Journal)December 31, 2011 at 4:05 PM

    Happy New Year to the two of you. A warm evening poolside with your crostini and a glass of Champagne sounds like a lovely way to end the year and welcome in the new. Enjoy!

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  39. AnonymousDecember 31, 2011 at 4:20 PM

    This is THE neatest idea for an appetizer!!! I am going to use it on January 9 when our LSU football
    team has their last game to determine championship...they are undefeated....anyway, we are having friends over to watch with us and I know they will love this with some good dessert wine!!
    Love the picture under the recipe
    that reads IT'S FIVE O'CLOCK SOMEWHERE".... cute!!
    Wishing you a HAPPY NEW YEAR!! Francy

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  40. FOODalogueDecember 31, 2011 at 4:22 PM

    Oh what a perfect union. I adore the crostini.

    Best wishes to you and Meekin in 2012.

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  41. ClaudiaDecember 31, 2011 at 5:04 PM

    Hi Sam - I'll be making this for New Year's Dinner - it's perfect with my meal. Happy 2012!

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  42. spiral styleDecember 31, 2011 at 5:04 PM

    Love the crostini pairing and so colorful. No real resolutions, just back to reality after the holidays...gym, healthy eating, regular blog posts etc.
    Wishing you a healthy, happy New Year.
    XXOO

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  43. VirginiaDecember 31, 2011 at 8:23 PM

    I thank you for your nice comments all year on my blog. I hope we will chat more in the new year!
    V

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  44. pamDecember 31, 2011 at 10:01 PM

    Happy New Year!!! No resolutions for me, I'll be doing the one little word thing again.

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  45. AnonymousJanuary 1, 2012 at 2:21 AM

    A terrific pairing of blue cheese and cranberry! Happy new year!!!

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  46. AnonymousJanuary 1, 2012 at 6:33 AM

    Your Blue cheese & cranberry appetizers rock, my friend!
    They look utterly delicious!!!!

    MMMMMMM,...A warm, lovely & happy 2012 filled with tons of joy, fun & great food adventures too! ;)

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  47. Kitchen BelleiciousJanuary 1, 2012 at 7:52 AM

    this crostini sounds and looks amazing! I love the flavor of the cherries you added with the blue cheese! Wonderful. Hope you had a great new years eve!

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  48. DonnieJanuary 1, 2012 at 7:54 AM

    Just wanted to pop in and say Don & I hope you both have a happy and healthy New Year. I think I will adopt your no eating while standing rule this year too...lol...Take care.

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  49. RitaJanuary 1, 2012 at 8:27 AM

    I just have to try these; LOVE blue cheese and you sure found a way to highlight it.
    Wishing you all the best for 2012.
    Rita

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  50. CatherineJanuary 1, 2012 at 9:23 AM

    Dear Sam, This is deliciousness!! I could taste it as I was reading it. Blue Cheese is one of my favorites. The combo with the cranberries and arugula is perfecto!!

    I wish you and your loved ones a very blessed New Year!

    Your friend,

    Catherine
    xo

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  51. UnknownJanuary 1, 2012 at 2:20 PM

    Best wishes for a Happy New Year Sam!
    I love the colors and flavors in your crostini appetizer.
    Blue Cheese is my favorite;-)

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  52. AnonymousJanuary 1, 2012 at 10:02 PM

    What a fabulous crostini - love the combination - as for resolutions - not this year - I'm all for small steps as often as I can! All the very best for 2012
    Mary x

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  53. EileenJanuary 1, 2012 at 10:20 PM

    This looks delicious, Sam. I love the combination of flavors.
    I hope you have a wonderful 2012. My only resolution is to keep enjoying life. Things have been going really well, lately, so I'm hoping they will continue to. :) Happy New Year.

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  54. icedgurlJanuary 2, 2012 at 1:54 AM

    trekking your yummy kitchen!!! thanks for sharing and keep posting! Happy New Year!

    cheers!
    ..TREK..

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  55. Roz | La Bella Vita CucinaJanuary 2, 2012 at 6:39 PM

    Oh Sam, what a wonderful crostini idea! Two of my favorite flavors combined! I'm sure it was a hit at the pool party! I hope that you have the most wonderful new year in 2012 and that you enjoy all of your travels, your family, and your NC & FL homes! And please keep posting these great recipes of yours! xoxo, Roz

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  56. tasteofbeirutJanuary 3, 2012 at 4:49 AM

    A delicious crostini! I could eat several , no problem! Happy New Year 2012 and wishing you health, prosperity and love and happiness.

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  57. AnonymousJanuary 3, 2012 at 7:40 AM

    I already gave a thumbs up on Facebook, but again...this looks SO wonderful! Have a great 20121
    Ronelle

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  58. KimJanuary 3, 2012 at 10:06 AM

    Sam- Happy New Year to you. I loved reading your two resolutions. Both of them speak to me, especially #1 on your list. I wish more people would resolve to be as kind.

    Your crostini are positively inspired. Such beautiful jewel tones and sharp flavors.

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  59. SutapaJanuary 3, 2012 at 11:06 AM

    Looks fantastic ....delicious!
    Wish you and all your loved ones A Very Happy New Year 2012!:)

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  60. Vicki LaneJanuary 3, 2012 at 11:28 AM

    That looks wonderful! I made your red wine cranberry sauce and liked it a lot -- will make a little more so we can try this delicious treat.

    Best of New Years to you and Meakin! I look forward to lots more of great recipes and photos.

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  61. tinyskilletJanuary 3, 2012 at 2:35 PM

    Sam...so sorry I'm so late to the party! Now, we are having this cold front come through brrr, but at least the sun is out. This appetizer is stunning. I am loving that chunk of blue cheese sitting there so pretty with the lovely cranberry just waiting for me to take a bite! :)

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  62. chow and chatterJanuary 3, 2012 at 4:53 PM

    this rocks as always happy new year

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  63. Mary BergfeldJanuary 4, 2012 at 1:13 AM

    What delicious eye-candy, Sam. The crostini are perfect for New Year's eve. I hope you and Macon have had a wonderful holiday and that 2012 brings only good things your way. Blessings...Mary

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  64. AnonymousJanuary 4, 2012 at 8:27 PM

    You got a really useful blog. I have been here reading for about an hour. I am a newbie and your success is very much an inspiration for me.

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  65. Mel_ColeJanuary 6, 2012 at 8:26 AM

    fancy dishes you got here :) Hope to see you in my Pink Saturday entries one and two. Happy New Year!

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  66. Tv Food and DrinkJanuary 8, 2012 at 2:08 PM

    WOW! That looks A.) incredible B.) classy and C.) refer to A and B. My bf is gonna love this. I'll let you know when it's made and it'll certainly make my site too. Thanks and happy new year!!!

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  67. JamieJanuary 10, 2012 at 7:21 AM

    I really think that there is nothing better than cheese topped with a jam, jelly, relish or chutney - fruit and cheese at its best. And this looks fabulous! A very Happy New Year, dear Sam. And this year - goals instead of resolutions!

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  68. Rookie QookieJanuary 10, 2012 at 10:55 AM

    Lovely space you have got :)

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  69. Chef FrescoJanuary 15, 2012 at 9:51 PM

    That is some seriously amazing looking blue cheese! Beautiful presentation too!

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  70. BeverlyJanuary 17, 2012 at 2:49 PM

    A very belated Happy Pink Saturday and Happy New Year, Sam. I hope better late than never wishes count.

    This looks delicious, and I have visions of variations dancing in my head.

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  71. Joan Ellen Gage AdminJanuary 22, 2012 at 6:05 PM

    This looks fabulous and is such a simple dish to make!

    Happy New Year to you and yours!

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