A baguette is a long, thin, crusty loaf of bread that has come to symbolize French cuisine. There are many ways to serve up a toasted baguette -- in the bottom of a soup bowl, as a sandwich or panini, as bruschetta, or even chopped or crumbled as croutons or breadcrumbs. Toasting a baguette is very easy and it makes an excellent base for a world of tasty toppings.

Cut the baguette into 1/4-inch slices and place them on a cookie or baking sheet in a single layer.

Brush the baguette slices with butter, margarine or olive oil.

Bake the baguette slices in a 400-degree Fahrenheit oven 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown. Turn the bread so that it toasts on both sides.

Top the toasted baguette with goodies like: goat cheese and smoked salmon; pecan butter, Brie and applies; or just a swipe of olive oil topped with a dash of salt and pepper.