Blue Cheese Croutons

These salty, cheesy, croutons are a great addition to soup or salad, or just on their own. I found it as part of a stew recipe in Fine Cooking (of course), but the stew itself was only above average. These croutons, on the other hand, are outstanding. Make them tonight. I often use pecans instead of walnuts, and I am sure other nuts will do too.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 Tbs butter
  
• 3 oz. blue cheese, crumbled (about 3/4 cup)
• 3 Tbs. finely chopped walnuts
• 18 (1/2-inch-thick) baguette slices

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened 1-1/2 Tbs. butter with the blue cheese, walnuts, and 1/2 tsp. pepper. Spread the mixture evenly onto the baguette slices. Transfer to a baking sheet.
2. Position a rack about 8 inches from the broiler element and heat the broiler on high.
   
3. Broil the croutons until deep golden-brown and crisp, 2 to 3 minutes.

Serves people. Eat.