Herbed Goat Cheese Toasts



40 (1/4-inch-thick) slices from 1 baguette
3 tablespoons olive oil
6 oz mild soft goat cheese at room temperature
1/4 cup chopped mixed tender fresh herbs such as basil, chives, chervil, dill, parsley, and tarragon; or 1 tablespoon chopped mixed strong fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme
1 1/2 tablespoons minced shallot
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1/3 cup well-chilled heavy cream

1.Put oven racks in upper and lower thirds of oven and preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Divide baguette slices between 2 shallow baking pans. Lightly brush tops of slices with oil, then lightly season with salt and pepper. Bake, switching position of pans halfway through baking, until toasts are crisp but not hard, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir together goat cheese, herbs, shallot, and pepper. Season with salt. Beat cream with a whisk until it just holds soft peaks, then fold into cheese mixture. Serve with toasts.

Cooks' Notes: • Toasts can be baked 1 day ahead and cooled completely, uncovered, then kept in an airtight container at room temperature. • Cheese mixture can be made 1 day ahead and chilled, covered. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Makes 40 hors d'oeuvres.

Gourmet, July 2006