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Crostini with Garlic, Cheese, and Toppings: Easy Toasted Baguette Appetizer Recipe

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4.2 from 36 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 20–24 crostini
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Crostini are thin slices of crusty baguette toasted until golden and crisp, making the perfect base for savory toppings. Serve them with creamy cheese, roasted vegetables, olives, cured meats, or fresh herbs for an easy and elegant Italian appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 baguette, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, halved
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Toppings

  • Soft goat cheese or ricotta
  • Prosciutto
  • Roasted red peppers
  • Marinated olives
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Fresh basil
  • Honey
  • Balsamic glaze

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for toasting the crostini evenly and ensure a crispy texture.
  2. Slice the bread: Cut the baguette into thin slices about ½ inch thick, making sure they are even so they toast uniformly.
  3. Season: Arrange the slices on a baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle each slice with salt and pepper for flavor.
  4. Toast: Bake the bread slices in the preheated oven for 7–10 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are crisp and golden brown.
  5. Add garlic: While the crostini are still warm, rub the cut side of the garlic clove lightly over each slice to infuse a subtle garlic flavor.
  6. Add toppings: Top the crostini with your choice of cheese, roasted vegetables, cured meats, fresh herbs, or other toppings as desired.
  7. Serve: Serve the crostini immediately while they remain crisp for the best texture and taste.

Notes

  • Slice the baguette evenly so the crostini cook at the same rate.
  • For softer crostini, reduce the baking time slightly.
  • Crostini can be toasted a day ahead and stored in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
  • Avoid adding wet toppings until just before serving to prevent sogginess.
  • A drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze pairs beautifully with goat cheese for a sweet and savory contrast.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://sarasplate.com/crostini-with-garlic-cheese-and-toppings-easy-toasted-baguette-appetizer-recipe/