Three Cheese Crostini Appetizer

Directions

1. 1
   Position an oven rack 5 to 6 inches from the broiler element.
2. 2
   Preheat the broiler to high.
3. 3
   Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil.
4. 4
   In a small bowl gently toss the tomatoes, shallots, 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil and vinegar together.
5. 5
   Spread out the mixture on the prepared baking sheet.
6. 6
   Set the baking sheet on a rack under the broiler element.
7. 7
   Broil until the tomatoes begin to show a few black spots, about 4 minutes with oven door closed.
8. 8
   Turn the mixture, using a spatula, and broil 3 minutes longer with the oven door closed.
9. 9
   Remove from the oven and transfer the mixture with a slotted spoon to a small bowl; set the bowl aside until needed.
10. 10
    Retain the broiler heat on high.
11. 11
    While the tomatoes are broiling, combine the ricotta, blue cheese, pesto, 1/2 teaspoon salt, lemon juice and lemon peel in a medium bowl.
12. 12
    Arrange the baguette slices on a large baking sheet and brush with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
13. 13
    Put the baking sheet on the rack under the broiler element and broil until golden, about 1 minute or so per side, watching carefully.
14. 14
    Remove from oven.
15. 15
    To assemble, season the tomato mixture with remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and peppercorns, then stir in the basil.
16. 16
    Spread some of the ricotta mixture over each crostini.
17. 17
    Top with the tomato/onion mixture, then sprinkle with shredded cheese, dividing all the ingredients equally among the slices.
18. 18
    Transfer to a serving plate and serve.
19. 19
    A viewer, who may not be a professional cook, provided this recipe.
20. 20
    The Food Network Kitchens chefs cannot make representation as to the results.