BERNIE'S BRIE

Dave got this recipe from Bernie, affectionately called "The Cousin" around these parts. Bernie always served this before his dinner parties with cocktails or simply as the star of his many cocktail galas.

Who doesn't LOVE brie. Over the years, we have added different fresh and dried fruits depending on what's in season and what would best compliment the rest of the meal.

Ingredients:

A round of brie

sliced almonds

1 granny smith apple thinly sliced, or

1 fresh pear thinly sliced, or

1 fresh Asian pear, or

dried cranberries, or

dried apricots

1 tbl olive oil

baguette

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

You can certainly choose one of the fresh or dried fruits above or a combination of them, but don't use too much as you don't want the fruit to overpower the brilliance of the brie.

In a oven proof clear "pyrex-type" dish, drizzle the olive oil in the pan, coating the bottom. Cut the round of brie in half or quarters (depending on the size of the round) and place the pieces in the pan and drizzle the top with olive oil. Arrange the almonds and your fruit(s) of choice on top of the brie and around it on the bottom of the pan.

Bake until the cheese is melted and gooey. Serve immediately with sliced baguette so the cheese doesn't start to reset.

This recipe should serve about 6 people as an appetizer, and you will find it is gone in an instant. You will be a star with your guests! Thanks Bernie - hope we have done you proud!

ENJOY!