Blackberry Mint Bruschetta

– compliments of OV Harvest

Serves 6-8 as an appetizer

1 cup fresh blackberries

1 Tbsp *Blackberry Ginger Balsamic + more for drizzling

*Raspberry, Strawberry or Blueberry can be used to add another fruit note!

fresh ground pepper

1 fresh baguette, sliced into 1/2″ slices on the diagonal

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) for drizzling to make crostini

6 oz Mascarpone (Italian Cream Cheese)

1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (8-10 mint leaves)

Goat Cheese – crumbled (optional garnish for a little salty taste)

1   Combine blackberries + 1 Tbsp balsamic + pepper  in small bowl.  Toss well, lightly mash with a fork and set aside at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow flavors to come together.

2 Preheat oven to 400º.  Arrange baguette slices on sheet pan, drizzle with EVOO and toast till a light brown (7-9 minutes).

3 To assemble – smear the bread with Mascarpone, top with a spoonful of macerated berries, drizzle with balsamic and garnish with mint.

Dip-style – layer toppings on a plate or shallow bowl and serve with the toasted baguette slices or crackers.