Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 4-6
Delight your taste buds with the unexpected yet harmonious combination of juicy strawberries, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze on crispy crostini. 🍓✨ This simple yet elegant appetizer balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, with creamy goat cheese adding a rich contrast to the vibrant freshness of the fruit and herbs. Perfect for summer gatherings, brunches, or as a sophisticated snack, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
🔥 For the Crostini:
☑ 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds 🥖
☑ 2 tablespoons🥄 olive oil (for brushing)
🔥 For the Topping:
☑ 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced 🍓
☑ ½ cup goat cheese, softened (or ricotta for a milder flavor) 🧀
☑ ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced 🌿
☑ 2 tablespoons🥄 balsamic glaze 🍇
☑ Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste 🧂
🔥 Optional Add-ins:
☑ Honey for extra sweetness 🍯
☑ Toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch 🌰
👨🍳 Cooking Steps
🥖 Step 1: Prepare the Crostini
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil.
3️⃣ Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
🍓 Step 2: Prepare the Topping
1️⃣ In a small bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness.
2️⃣ Thinly slice the basil leaves for a burst of fresh flavor.
✨ Step 3: Assemble the Crostini
1️⃣ Spread a generous layer of goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice.
2️⃣ Top with sliced strawberries and sprinkle with fresh basil.
3️⃣ Drizzle with balsamic glaze and add a touch of honey if desired.
4️⃣ Finish with a light sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra texture (optional).
🌿 Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
1️⃣ Serve immediately as a vibrant appetizer or snack.
Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor—these Strawberry & Basil Balsamic Crostini are the perfect bite-sized treat that’s sweet, savory, and oh-so-satisfying! 🍓🌿
