Balsamic Glazed Pear and
Goat Cheese Crostini

Makes 24 pieces
2 Pears
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon honey
24 baguette rounds, toasted
1/2 cup goat cheese, spreadable
1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted*
Freshly ground black pepper, (optional)

Core pears and cut into 48 thin slices. In large frying pan, heat vinegar, butter and honey over medium heat 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until reduced by half, about 2 tablespoons. Add pear slices and continue cooking 1 minute, turning once. Place 2 pear slices on each baguette round and top with 1 teaspoon goat cheese. Sprinkle almonds over cheese and garnish with fresh pepper, if desired.
To toast almonds, place in heavy frying pan and toast over medium heat, stirring constantly, 1 to 2 minutes or until tan with toasted aroma.