Fig and Goat Cheese Bruschetta

This simple, elegant appetizer will be a great edition to your next party. If you don't have time to make the jam from scratch, you could substitute store bought. Leftover jam is excellent with breakfast...

Ingredients

• 9 ounces dried Mission figs, chopped
• 1/3 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/3 cup orange sections, coarsely chopped
• 1 teaspoon grated orange rind
• 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 40 1/2-inch-think slices French bread baguette, lightly toasted
• 10 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 5 teaspoons walnuts, finely chopped

Directions

1. Combine first six ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Uncover and simmer 5 minutes more, or until mixture has thickened. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.

2. Preheat broiler. Top each toasted baguette slice with fig mixture, goat cheese and walnuts. Arrange on a baking sheet and broil for 2 minutes or until nuts begin to brown. Serve warm.

Serves 20 (2 bruschetta per person)