Strawberry & Balsamic Crostini is a delicious appetizer that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors! This recipe features fresh strawberries layered on crispy crostini and topped with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a summer gathering or an elegant dinner party, these delightful bites are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests!
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients for Strawberry & Balsamic Crostini
- How to Make Strawberry & Balsamic Crostini
- Tips for Making Strawberry & Balsamic Crostini
- Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storing Leftovers
- Freezing
- Reheating
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
- Try these Strawberry & Balsamic Crostini related recipes next!
- Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil
- Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
- Fig and Balsamic Crostini
- Peach and Goat Cheese Crostini
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple. With just a few easy steps, you can create a beautiful appetizer that requires minimal cooking!
- Perfect Balance of Flavors. The sweetness of fresh strawberries paired with tangy balsamic glaze makes every bite a burst of delicious flavor.
- Elegant Presentation. These crostini look stunning on a platter, making them suitable for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to formal dinners.
Ingredients for Strawberry & Balsamic Crostini
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Baguette: Fresh baguette slices are toasted to create the crunchy base for the crostini.
- Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are the star of the dish, providing a natural sweetness.
- Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness that complements the strawberries perfectly.
- Goat Cheese: Creamy goat cheese spread on the crostini adds richness and a creamy texture.
- Fresh Basil: Delicate basil leaves give freshness and a wonderful aroma to finish off the dish.
How to Make Strawberry & Balsamic Crostini
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the baguette into ½-inch pieces and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Lightly brush each slice with olive oil. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooled, spread a layer of goat cheese on each crostini.
- Top with sliced strawberries and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tips for Making Strawberry & Balsamic Crostini
- Choose Ripe Strawberries: Make sure to select ripe and sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- Let Crostini Cool: Allow the crostini to cool slightly before adding the goat cheese to prevent it from melting.
- Experiment with Cheeses: You can replace goat cheese with cream cheese or ricotta for a different flavor and texture.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the crostini by toasting the baguette slices in advance and store in an airtight container.
- Slice the strawberries and prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time, keeping them refrigerated until serving.
Storing Leftovers
These crostini are best when fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the components separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.
Freezing Strawberry & Balsamic Crostini
- It is not recommended to freeze assembled crostini, as the texture of the bread and toppings will be compromised.
- You can freeze the sliced baguette separately; toast directly from frozen when ready to use.
Reheating Strawberry & Balsamic Crostini
- To reheat crostini, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crisp.
- Avoid using the microwave as it can make the crostini soggy.
Serving Suggestions
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but if frozen is all you have, ensure they are thawed and drained well before using.
Can I make crostini a day ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the crostini and toppings in advance, but it’s best to assemble them just before serving for optimal crispness.
What can I substitute for balsamic glaze?
You can use a mixture of balsamic vinegar and honey or maple syrup as an alternative to balsamic glaze.
How long do leftovers last?
Assembled crostini are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days when kept in the refrigerator.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! You can try ricotta, cream cheese, or even feta cheese for a unique twist.
