Tartines with Jelly

Jelly tartines are elegant snacks that are easy to prepare, perfect for an aperitif or a buffet. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

• Slices of bread for bruschetta or loaf bread
• Soft butter
• Fruit jelly (for example, strawberry, apricot, or blueberries)
• Cream cheese (optional)

Preparation

1. If you’re using loaf bread, cut off the edges and then cut each slice into 4 squares or triangles, depending on your preference.
2. Lightly toast the slices of bread, to make them crispy. This step is optional, but it gives the tartines a pleasant texture.
3. Spread a thin layer of butter on the toasted bread slices, to add creaminess and enrich the flavor.
4. If you choose to use cream cheese, add a thin layer on top of the butter.
5. With a teaspoon, distribute a bit of fruit jelly on each tartine. The amount will depend on your personal taste, but remember it should not be too plentiful as to not overwhelm the other flavors.
6. Arrange the tartines on a serving plate and serve immediately to enjoy their crispiness.

Variants: For an Italian twist, you could replace the fruit jelly with a tomato compote, which you can make by slowly cooking tomatoes with some sugar, balsamic vinegar, and spices such as thyme or basil.

Curiosity

Fruit jelly is a classic accompaniment for cheese and meat in many countries. When paired with sweet or savory foods, it adds a touch of sophistication and a pleasant contrast of flavors.