Description
Goat Cheese Crostini delivers a Mediterranean-inspired flavor symphony that dances across palates. Crisp bread, creamy cheese, and delicate herbs create an irresistible starter perfect for elegant gatherings or casual wine nights.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds (about 225 grams)
- 4 ounces (113 grams) goat cheese, softened
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (thyme, basil, or parsley)
Finishing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons honey or balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup sliced figs, grapes, or cherry tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a warm culinary canvas by heating the oven to a golden 375°F (190°C), creating the perfect environment for transforming humble bread into crispy delights.
- Transform thin baguette slices into potential flavor vehicles by delicately painting each piece with a light sheen of olive oil, ensuring an even, glistening coating.
- Slide the prepared bread into the preheated oven and allow them to metamorphose into crunchy, amber-hued crostini for approximately 8-10 minutes, watching carefully to achieve the ideal level of crispness.
- Once cooled slightly, lavish each golden toast with a rich, creamy blanket of tangy goat cheese, spreading generously to create a smooth, luxurious base.
- Elevate the crostini’s flavor profile by drizzling with liquid gold (honey) or a glossy balsamic reduction, adding depth and complexity to the appetizer.
- Enhance the sensory experience by sprinkling a delicate dusting of salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and chopped aromatic herbs across the surface.
- For an additional layer of texture and taste, crown your crostini with a scattering of toasted nuts or a vibrant medley of seasonal fruits.
- Present these elegant morsels immediately to capture their peak of crispy, creamy perfection, inviting guests to savor the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Notes
- Choose a fresh, crusty baguette for the best texture and crunch when making crostini.
- Toast bread slices until they’re perfectly golden but not too dark to prevent burning or bitter taste.
- Experiment with different goat cheese varieties like herbed, plain, or aged for unique flavor profiles.
- Customize toppings based on dietary preferences by using dairy-free cheese alternatives or adding gluten-free bread options.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg