Just learned that Americans throw out 4 pounds of cheese per person each year. (#fourpounds). Here's one of may favorite recipes ever - never throw out cheese! 

I first read about this idea in Steven Jenkins' terrific book, Cheese Primer. What a flavorful way to use leftover cheese it is. When I've cheerfully informed guests that they are eating leftovers, they have pretended to be offended... and then reached for thirds.

Serves 6 to 8

INGREDIENTS
5 pieces bread, crusts removed, cut into 4 triangles per slice
1 lb. leftover cheese pieces (blue, brie, cheddar, Provolone; the more the better)
1/2 cup white wine
2 TB. chopped garlic
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat the broiler.
2. Arrange bread on a baking sheet in a single layer and broil for about 1 minute on each side, until lightly browned.
3. Meanwhile, in a food processor fitted with a metal blade, process cheese, wine, garlic, and black pepper. You may have to cut larger, harder pieces of cheese into small chunks first, so that the blade of the food processor doesn’t get stuck on the cheese.
4. Remove baking sheet with toast from the oven.
5. Spread 1 tablespoon or so of cheese mixture on each toast triangle and broil for an additional minute; then serve to sighs of appreciation.

Ramp up garlic and pepper to taste.

Clams Casino evoke vacation by the sea.  They pair beautifully with cool dry whites.  And as an added bonus (hm) kids love 'em.  Just don't tell them the key ingredient...
[recipe  and video]

Filmed for Phantom Gourmet