Veggie Toast, The Perfect Snack

One of the best ways to enjoy the fantastic bounty from the farmstand is with veggie toast! It's an incredibly easy snack that features some of the best flavors that summer has to offer. Here’s how to make a delicious veggie toast using a simple yet flavorful pea spread with lemon and herbs. Recipe from local chef, Amanda Webb.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups green peas

• Olive oil

• Kosher salt

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, basil, mint - pick one or mix and match)

• 1-2 lemons

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Baguette or crunchy bread, sliced

Extra Topping Ideas:

• Crumbled goat cheese

• Shredded parmesan cheese

• Balsamic glaze

• Fresh herbs

Instructions:

Pea Spread with Lemon and Herbs:

1. Prepare the Peas:

   • Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add a generous spoonful of salt and a drizzle of olive oil.

   • Blanch the peas in the boiling water until they are very soft and can be mashed with a fork.

2. Chop Herbs and Lemon:

   • While the peas cook, chop the fresh herbs and zest one lemon (about 1 teaspoon of zest).

3. Cool the Peas:

   • Drain the peas and run cold water over them to cool down.

4. Mash the Peas:

   • In a large bowl, mash the peas with the back of a fork or use a food processor for a creamier texture.

   • Add in the minced garlic, chopped herbs, and lemon zest. Stir together.

5. Add Lemon and Oil:

   • Add the juice from one lemon and 1-2 tablespoons more of olive oil. Mix until you get a spreadable consistency similar to hummus.

   • Adjust the flavor with more lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Veggie Toast:

1. Prepare the Bread:

   • Use your favorite bread, such as the Slow Fire Bread from the farmstand, or a gluten-free alternative if preferred.

   • Drizzle olive oil on the bread slices and rub them with a garlic clove for extra flavor.

   • Toast the bread slices for added crunch. If toasting isn’t an option, you can skip this step.

2. Spread the Base Layer:

   • Spread the prepared pea mixture onto each toasted bread slice.

3. Add Extra Toppings:

   • Enhance your veggie toast with additional toppings such as crumbled goat cheese, shredded parmesan, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

   • Fresh herbs can also be sprinkled on top for extra flavor.

4. Top with Veggies:

   • Add whatever fresh veggies you have on hand, such as chopped radishes, salad turnips, thinly sliced greens, or roasted fennel.

5. Finish and Serve:

   • Always finish with some fresh cracked pepper and a sprinkle of salt for a boost of flavor.

   • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Veggie toast is an incredibly versatile snack that you can easily tailor to your taste with different spreads and toppings. Whether you're having a picnic or just a quick snack at home, this veggie toast with a lemony pea spread is sure to delight your taste buds!