There are few comfort foods as nostalgic as classic cheese toast. Crispy cheese toasties were always a treat, whether it was for a snack when mom is away or a quick fix for school lunches. But as we grew older, our tastes changed, and so did the humble cheese toastie. Now there are endless ways to improve this simple dish, and surprisingly, they are just as easy to make. Here are three innovative cheese toastie recipes that are sure to satisfy your grown-up taste buds and make the perfect snack for your next date night.
Toast with smoked salmon and caviar
If you like to experiment with bold flavors, this Smoked Salmon Caviar Toast is a must-try. With its blend of creamy cheese, delicate smoked salmon and a luxurious touch of caviar, this is a recipe that will transport you straight to a high-end restaurant without leaving your kitchen.
Ingredients: 1 baguette, sliced, 30g unsalted butter, 225g whipped cream cheese, 115g smoked salmon, 100g premium caviar (about 4oz) and 2 tbsp fresh dill for garnish.
recipe: Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. Melt the butter in the microwave and spread it on one side of the baguette slices. Place the slices on a baking sheet and roast them for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the baguette slices to cool completely and store in an airtight container for later use). Once cooled, spread 1-2 teaspoons of cream cheese on each slice. Then spread a generous spoonful of caviar on top of half of the slices, and use the other half to get a delicate slice of smoked salmon. For a final touch, add a few decorative dots of caviar next to the salmon and garnish with a sprig of dill. Serve with champagne.
Kimchi Cheese Toast
This kimchi cheese toastie is a vibrant combination that strikes the perfect balance of heat and freshness. A little bold, a little whimsical, this toast will awaken your taste buds!
Ingredients: 15g cream cheese (room temperature) or Amul cheese spread, 120g finely chopped kimchi (plus extra for serving if you like), 2 young onions, thinly sliced, a few fresh coriander leaves with tender stems, juice of ½ lemon, salt to taste , 4 slices of thick rustic bread (grilled or toasted), chili oil and toasted white sesame seeds for serving.
recipe: To prepare, combine the cheese and chopped kimchi in a medium bowl. In a separate small bowl, toss the chopped scallions and cilantro with the lime juice and a pinch of salt. Spread the kimchi cream cheese mixture generously over the toasted bread slices. Top each slice with scallion and cilantro and, if desired, additional kimchi for added flavor. Drizzle with chili oil and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a final touch. This dish is guaranteed to pack a punch!
Toast with cheese and chickpea salad
Want something hearty and a little more desi? This Cheesy Toast with Chickpea Salad will do the trick. Packed with protein from the chickpeas, creamy from the cheese and tangy from the pickles, it’s the perfect hearty snack or light meal.
Ingredients: 85g unsalted butter (room temperature), 30ml extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling), 4 thick slices of sourdough or French bread, 2 tins chickpeas or cooked chole, finely chopped ½ small onion, finely chopped, 2 celery stalks , finely chopped, 225 g of extra sharp cheddar cheese or any other hard melted cheese, coarsely grated, some coarsely chopped jalapeño, some coarsely chopped dill, salt, freshly ground pepper and hot sauce and potato chips for serving (optional)
recipe: In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Toast 4 slices of sourdough or French bread, turning once, until golden brown and crisp, about 3 minutes per side. Repeat the process with the remaining butter, olive oil and bread. Place the toasted slices on a baking sheet. In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas coarsely with a spoon or potato masher, reserving some of the whole peas for texture. Add the sliced red onion, celery, grated cheddar, gherkin and dill. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Mix everything thoroughly. Spoon the chickpea salad generously over the toasted bread, making sure the edges are covered. Broil toast for 3-4 minutes or until cheese is melted. Finish by sprinkling the top with fine sea salt and drizzle with hot sauce if desired. Serve with potato chips on the side for a nice crunch.
Three delicious and inventive chili cheese toasties that are perfect for entertaining! Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a solo snack, these recipes will not only satisfy your cravings, but also take your toasting game to a whole new level.
