Basil Toasts/Tostadas de albahaca

ASSEMBLE THESE SUPPLIES:

2 or 3 shallots
1 long loaf crusty French bread
1 stick unsalted butter
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil, or 2 teaspoons dried
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

STEPS IN PREPARATION:

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.With chef's knife, peel shallots and mince finely. With serrated knife, cut bread into '1/4-inch-thick slices and arrange in single layer on cookie sheet.In small skillet, melt butter over low heat. Add shallots and sauté, stirring with wooden spatula, until just trans­lucent, about 3 minutes. Add basil and stir to blend. Brush bread slices with herb butter and sprinkle with cheese. Bake until lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes.