Crispy and Delicious Homemade Crostini Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 Baguette
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 1 clove Garlic
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves
  • 1 cup Fresh Mozzarella
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Glaze

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the baguette into 1/2 inch thick slices.
  3. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and brush each slice with olive oil.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and crispy.
  5. While the bread is still warm, rub each slice with the clove of garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Top each slice of bread with a few cherry tomatoes, a basil leaf, and a slice of fresh mozzarella.
  7. Return the crostini to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Drizzle each crostini with balsamic glaze before serving. Enjoy!

Tools for making

  • Baking sheet - Used to bake the crostini slices in the oven.
  • Knife - To slice the baguette and cut the cherry tomatoes.
  • Cutting board - To safely cut ingredients.
  • Basting brush - Used to brush olive oil onto the bread slices.
  • Garlic press - To crush the garlic clove for rubbing onto the crostini.
  • Oven mitts - To safely handle the baking sheet and hot crostini.
  • Serving platter - To display and serve the finished crostini.

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat baguette instead of regular baguette for a healthier option.
  • Try different types of bread, such as ciabatta or sourdough, for a varied flavor.
  • Add a spread of goat cheese or ricotta on the crostini before adding the toppings.
  • Replace the tomatoes with roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
  • Add some sliced prosciutto or cooked bacon on top for a meaty variation.
  • Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary to enhance the flavor.
  • Top with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy twist.
  • For a vegan option, substitute the mozzarella with vegan cheese or use avocado slices as a creamy replacement.

Recipe overview

Crostini are perfect as a party appetizer or as a delicious snack. These small, toasted bread slices topped with fresh ingredients make for an irresistible combination of crunchy and creamy, savory and sweet. Our take on this Italian classic uses cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella topped with a balsamic glaze. You'll love the simplicity and the burst of flavors in each bite. This recipe is easy to follow and can be prepared in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for those impromptu gatherings or when you need a quick and satisfying snack. Enjoy the process of making them, and even more, enjoy every bite!

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to make crostini? - The total time required to make crostini is approximately 25-30 minutes.
  2. Can I use a different type of bread? - Yes, you can use other types of bread like French bread or Italian bread as a substitute for baguette.
  3. Do I have to use fresh mozzarella? - Fresh mozzarella provides the best texture and flavor, but you can use shredded mozzarella as a substitute if needed.
  4. Can I make crostini ahead of time? - Yes, you can prepare the toasted bread in advance, but it's best to add the toppings and bake them right before serving to maintain their freshness.
  5. Can I store leftover crostini? - Crostini is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. However, the bread may lose its crispness over time.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking Sheet - Used to bake the crostini slices in the oven.
  • Brush - Used to brush olive oil onto the bread slices.
  • Garlic Press - Helpful for mincing the garlic clove.
  • Serving Platter - Ideal for arranging and serving the crostini.
  • Knife - Used to slice the baguette and cut the cherry tomatoes.
  • Spatula - Useful for transferring the baked crostini to the serving platter.
  • Basting Brush - Used for drizzling the balsamic glaze over the crostini.

Origin stories

Crostini, which means "little toasts" in Italian, are a staple in Italian cuisine, much like pasta or pizza. They originated from the medieval times when Italian peasants who could not afford ceramic plates ate their meals on slices of bread instead. What we now relish as an elegant appetizer was once a humble eating utensil! Over time, the Italians began topping their bread with local ingredients such as tomatoes, cheese, and herbs, giving birth to the modern-day crostini. Today, crostini are enjoyed all over the world, with toppings varying to encompass a wide range of flavors and cultures. This simple yet versatile dish continues to be a testament to the timeless beauty of Italian cuisine.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.