One of the most joyful things about this season is that friends and family drop in to visit. But that can also be one of the most stressful parts, considering all the elements you’d like to have in place when they come by—not the least of which is having a delicious nibble to serve.
With that in mind, consider this recipe your holiday pressure-release valve. It’s a memorable Mediterranean bite of crunchy toast topped with coarsely mashed white beans with lemon, garlic and rosemary, finished festively with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and a sprinkle parsley and crushed red pepper flakes. It takes all of 15 minutes to whip up with ingredients that are easy to keep on hand—so it’s perfect for surprise guests.
The dish has a modern, rustic elegance; it is a nice savory break from all the cookie action, and it pairs well with many beverages you might be pouring at this time of year, including a cup of tea or hot cider and a glass of red wine. Most importantly, it is a genuine pleasure not just for the guests, but for the host as well.
