Ingredients
For the Crostini:
- ½ baguette, cut into ¼-inch slices (about 25 slices)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, divided
- Salt, to taste
For the Beef Tenderloin:
- 2 (8-ounce) pieces beef tenderloin
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh ground pepper, to taste
For the Whipped Goat Cheese:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Pinch of salt
For Assembly:
- 1/3 cup pesto of your choice
Instructions
- Prepare the Crostini: Arrange the baguette slices on a large baking sheet. Lightly brush both sides with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with a little salt. Place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly browned and crispy. Peel and slice the tip off 1 garlic clove; rub the clove on one side of each toasted baguette slice to infuse a subtle garlic flavor. Set aside to cool.
- Cook the Steaks: Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and fresh ground pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the steaks and cook for about 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness. When turning the steaks after the first 4 minutes, smash 4 garlic cloves in their skins and add to the skillet. Periodically baste the steaks with the oil and pan juices to keep them moist and flavorful. Remove steaks from the pan and let rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
- Make the Whipped Goat Cheese: Combine softened cream cheese, goat cheese, olive oil, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt either in a food processor and blend for 1-2 minutes until smooth and fluffy, or place ingredients in a bowl and beat with a hand mixer until light and creamy.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread each toasted baguette slice with a generous layer of whipped goat cheese. Top with a thin slice of rested beef tenderloin, then add a small dollop of pesto. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, savory, and herby flavors.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use a high-quality pesto, whether homemade or store-bought.
- Make sure the beef rests before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
- You can prepare the whipped goat cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to use.
- If desired, substitute baguette with ciabatta slices or another crusty bread.
- For different heat levels, adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the whipped goat cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American