By Chef Sara
This elegant fall appetizer has several steps, but most can be made well in advance to save time. To simplify further without sacrificing flavor, substitute an artisanal spreadable vegan cheese, such as Treeline or Miyoko’s Creamery brands, for the homemade tofu-cashew ricotta. The cheese will have a different flavor and texture, but will still be delicious!
Fried sage leaves make a gorgeous garnish for this recipe and others, especially creamy fall-inspired soups. Never made them before? Check out this easy recipe to learn how!
Butternut-Sage Crostini with Herbed Cashew Cheese
This elegant fall appetizer has several steps, but most can be made well in advance to save time. To simplify further without sacrificing flavor
Ingredients
Tofu-Cashew Ricotta
- 1 cup raw, unsalted cashews, soaked for 4 to 8 hours, rinsed and drained
- 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons mellow white miso
- 2 to 4 tablespoons non-dairy milk
- 1/2 pound extra-firm tofu
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Squash
- One butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into ½-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly
- baguette, gluten-free if desired, sliced into ½-inch-thick slices and toasted
- Olive oil for brushing
- 16 Fried Sage Leaves click here to learn how to make these
Instructions
- In the bowl of a food processor, combine the cashews, lemon juice, and miso. Process until mostly smooth, adding in non-dairy milk as needed to keep the mixture moving. Add the tofu and dried Italian seasoning, and pulse a few times, until mostly blended but not completely smooth – a bit of texture is desirable. Set aside until needed, or refrigerate if making in advance. Preheat the oven to 425°F, and line a baking sheet with parchment. Toss together the butternut squash cubes, olive oil, and maple syrup in a large bowl, then spread evenly on the baking sheet. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper, then transfer to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the squash is tender and starting to caramelize. Allow to cool at room temperature until needed, or refrigerate if making in advance. (If making ahead, allow to come to room temperature before assembling crostini.) To serve, spread a generous tablespoon of the cashew-tofu ricotta on a baguette slice, top with a few cubes of butternut squash, and arrange a sage leaf on top. Serve immediately.
