Grilled Bread and Guacamole "Butter"

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Cut bread diagonally into 1/4-inch-thick slices and brush both sides of each slice with oil.

   Step 2

   Prepare grill (or preheat oven).

   Step 3

   Grill bread in batches on a rack set 5 to 6 inches over glowing coals, turning it, until toasted on both sides, about 3 minutes. (Alternatively, bread may be toasted in batches on a baking sheet in a 350°F. oven until crisp, 10 to 12 minutes.) Grilled bread may be made 1 week ahead and cooled completely before keeping in an airtight container at room temperature.

   Step 4

   Halve avocados and discard pits. Spoon flesh into a food processor. Add remaining ingredients and blend just until smooth. Guacamole "butter" may be made 1 day ahead and chilled, its surface covered with plastic wrap.

2. Step 5

   Serve bread topped with dollops of guacamole "butter."