I'm officially designating these toasts as my favorite holiday appetizer. Each year, I find myself fixated on one perfect snack that I can't help but serve at every event. From Thanksgiving feasts to holiday gatherings, these bites are always on the menu.
A couple of years ago, I raved about sweet potato crostinis, but this year, it's definitely these burrata toasts topped with caramelized walnuts and mint-pomegranate pesto. They’re not only irresistibly tasty but also festive with their Christmas colors!
In this post, I’m sharing my long-standing recipe for caramelized walnuts, which make for a delightful sweet and crunchy topping on these toasts. I’d love to hear your go-to holiday appetizers in the comments!
This recipe does require some prep, but most can be done ahead of time. I sliced the figs the night before and had the bakery cut the bread for me, making assembly a breeze.
These walnuts can last a week in a jar at room temperature or up to a month in the freezer. The pesto remains fresh in the fridge for about five days. With so few ingredients, it’s crucial to make each one shine.
Do you know that one eager guest who always asks, “How can I help?” I like to have a specific task ready so I can delegate while managing last-minute party details. Assembling these toasts is a fantastic job for your enthusiastic helper.
Just prepare the ingredients, and let them create the toasts while you light candles, play music, and get ready for the festivities.
This recipe is a harmonious blend where all the flavors come together for a perfect bite. You might find yourself sneaking back for just one more—I warned you!
I've relied on these caramelized walnuts for years, incorporating them into salads, enhancing veggie sides, and even using them as a sweet surprise on vanilla ice cream. I like to make a large batch and keep them in the freezer for easy access.
This mint pesto is incredible too. Drizzle it over roasted butternut squash or pair it with salmon for something special.
Now you have my blessing to designate these your official holiday appetizer as well. Just keep the ease of preparation to yourself; my friends are convinced I’m a culinary genius!
By the way, have you seen our walnut-themed DIY holiday decorations from a few years back? They’re simple to make and will add a charming touch to your holiday decor—be sure to check them out!
Stay tuned for more holiday inspiration in the coming weeks, but savor these toasts in the meantime!
Ingredients
Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 20 mins | Total time: 30 mins
Serving Size: 2 slices
- 1 cup walnuts (shelled)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (Maldon recommended)
- 1 loaf rustic country bread or French baguette
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 ball burrata cheese (or fresh mozzarella as a substitute)
- 8 - 10 ripe figs, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves for garnish
For the mint pesto:
- 1/3 cup walnuts (shelled)
- 2 cups fresh mint leaves
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F.
- In a small saucepan, mix the walnuts, sugar, and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil while stirring until the sugar dissolves. Simmer over moderate heat for 5 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the walnuts to a parchment-lined baking sheet and sprinkle lightly with salt. Bake for 9 minutes until they’re fragrant and lightly caramelized. Allow to cool.
- For the mint pesto, combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender, blending until well combined but slightly chunky for texture.
- Slice the bread into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Heat the broiler or use an indoor grill pan. Brush each side with olive oil, then broil until lightly charred, about 1 minute per side, turning once.
- Transfer the toasts to a cutting board. On each warm toast, spread a teaspoon of burrata, drizzle with mint pesto, top with fresh fig slices, and scatter walnuts and pomegranates. Cut each toast in half, garnishing with fresh mint leaves. Enjoy!
