Strawberry Bruschetta

Yield: 4 - 6 servings

1 cup strawberries, hulled and diced
1 tablespoon sugar
1 French baguette, sliced on a bias
4 ounces goat cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup minced basil leaves
freshly ground black pepper

Combine the strawberries and sugar in a small bowl; toss to combine. Let the berried macerate for about 30 minutes so that they begin to release their juices. Spread a thin layer of goat cheese on top of each baguette slice. Top each slice with spoonfuls of the strawberry mixture. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Top each slice with the basil leaves and cracked pepper, to taste.