This recipe was an accidental discovery in our first year of marriage. We were having guests for dinner & thought we should be serving a starter to our main meal – we were new to hosting but were eager to pull out all the stops to ensure our guests enjoyed themselves. Being newly married we were also on a budget although very creative & so whilst most would have experimented with safer herbs like rosemary or basil, we thought we’d give our garden lavender a moment in the spotlight. Let’s just say that there have been many more moments centre stage & when you try this recipe you’ll understand why!
It’s the simplest snack or an appetiser recipe for any dinner party where time is not on your side. You can make the lavender mayonnaise in advance, which allows the lavender to be absorbed more and enhances the flavour.
First chop the leaves and sprigs of fresh lavender to achieve about 2 – 3 tbsp of chopped lavender. This you add to a cup of store bought homemade Pitcharelloes mayonnaise (substitute with store bought if you must). Allow to stand and infuse for at least half an hour.
Slice french baguettes and then toast under the grill on one side until lightly browned. Turn over and coat the untoasted side with the lavender mayo. Sprinkle with good mature cheddar on each slice and top with paprika or cayenne pepper. Place under the grill until the cheese is fully melted. Serve and enjoy!
