Cherry Bruschetta

Yield: 18 appetizers

18 slices (1/2-inch thick) small baguette-style bread

1 tablespoon olive oil, divided

1-1/2 cups pitted Northwest fresh sweet cherries, coarsely chopped

1/4 cup each chopped cilantro and diced yellow sweet pepper

2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions

2 tablespoons lime juice

1 teaspoon grated lime peel

1/2 teaspoon garlic salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

2 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese

1 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh basil

Toast one side of baguette slices at 350°F for 5 minutes. Turn slices, brush with olive oil and bake 5 minutes longer. Combine cherries, cilantro, pepper, green onions, lime juice, lime peel, salt, pepper, and remaining olive oil; mix well. Top each slice of baguette with a thin slice of fresh mozzarella cheese, a heaping tablespoon of cherry mixture and sliced basil. Serve warm or cold. Makes 18 appetizers.

SOURCE: NORTHWEST CHERRY GROWERS