Hey there Oscar!

I love the Oscars... always have.  I think it's the secret wish to be strolling down that red carpet, with some nice guy on my arm (George Clooney, perhaps) in a great dress designed especially for me.  Of course, in my dream I end up falling hopelessly down the red carpet and forgetting to thank the academy during my acceptance speech.  Oh, the horror!

The Oscars also mean an excuse to whip up some tasty food.  We'll keep it simple and kid friendly.  This is sure to be a hit:

GARLIC AND CHEESE CROSTINI  

• 24 (1/3-inch-thick) baguette slices (from a baguette at least
• 1/4 cup olive oil, divided
• 3/4 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano (preferably imported)
• 5 large garlic cloves, minced
• Kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees with rack in middle. Arrange bread slices in 1 layer on a large baking sheet and brush tops with 3 tablespoons oil.

Stir together remaining tablespoon oil, cheese, garlic, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle each slice with about 1 teaspoon cheese mixture, mounding it slightly.

Bake until topping just starts to melt, 6 to 8 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley and kosher salt to taste. Serve warm. Cook's' note: Cheese mixture can be made 1 day ahead and chilled. Makes 24 appetizers. 

Photo by Epicurious.com

If you want to get a little more creative, check out Epicurious, where they are featuring menu's influenced by this year's ten Best Picture nominated films.  The menu inspired by Up would fare well at my house but I would love to taste some Avatar inspired Yukon Gold Potato and Wild Mushroom Gratin with Blue Cheese. 

I'll be watching the glamor on the red carpet and of course, voting for Up in the Air to win even though I think Avatar will get it. Enjoy the weekend everybody!