Herbed Bean Spread with Baguette Toasts

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 375F.

2. 2

   Cut baguette crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices.

3. 3

   In a saucepan melt butter with salt to taste over moderate heat and brush butter on one side of each slice.

4. 4

   Arrange baguette slices, buttered sides up, on 2 large baking sheets and toast in upper and middle thirds of oven until golden, about 12 minutes.

5. 5

   (Toasts may be made 2 days ahead and kept in an airtight container.)

6. 6

   Drain beans in a colander.

7. 7

   Gently rinse beans and drain well.

8. 8

   Mince parsley.

9. 9

   In a food processor blend together all spread ingredients except oil until smooth.

10. 10

    With motor running, add oil in a slow stream, blending until incorporated, and season spread with salt and pepper.

11. 11

    (Spread may be made 1 day ahead and chilled, covered.

12. 12

    Bring spread to room temperature before serving.)

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.