Truffled Asparagus Crostini

Ingredients

• 1 pound asparagus spears trimmed
• 0.1 teaspoon pepper black freshly ground
• 1 inch bread baguette french
• 2.5 teaspoons olive oil extravirgin
• 2 ounces manchego cheese grated
• 0.3 teaspoon salt 

Equipment

• bowl
• frying pan
• baking sheet
• oven
• broiler

Directions

1. Preheat broiler.
2. Arrange baguette slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet; broil 1 minute or until lightly browned.
3. Remove from oven; turn over and broil 1 minute or until lightly browned.
4. Remove from oven; cool on pan.
5. Fill a large skillet with water to a depth of 1 inch; bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
6. Add asparagus; cook 2 minutes or until crisp-tender.
7. Drain and plunge asparagus into ice water; drain. Chop asparagus to measure 2 cups.
8. Place chopped asparagus in a bowl.
9. Add oil, salt, and pepper; toss well to coat.
10. Top each bread slice with 1 rounded tablespoon asparagus mixture; place on a baking sheet.
11. Sprinkle cheese evenly over crostini. Broil 1 minute or until cheese melts and begins to melt.
12. Serve warm.