Description
Delicious and fresh Tomato Goat Cheese Crostini featuring crispy baguette slices topped with a flavorful mixture of cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, and creamy goat cheese, finished with a sweet balsamic glaze. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for parties or light snacking and can be prepared in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Crostini
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2” thick diagonal slices
- 4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
For the Tomato Topping
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (12 oz), quartered
- 2 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced or pressed
- 1/8 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
For the Cheese and Garnish
- 4 oz goat cheese (such as Boursin or cream cheese)
- 2 Tbsp balsamic glaze (homemade or storebought)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Slice Baguette: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and place a rack in the center. Using a serrated knife, slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices to create the base for your crostini.
- Toast the Bread: Arrange the baguette slices on a rimmed baking sheet. Brush both sides of each slice with about 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 7 to 10 minutes until the edges turn slightly golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Tomato Topping: While the bread is toasting, combine the quartered cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a mixing bowl. Toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Crostini: Once the toasted bread slices have cooled, spread a generous layer of goat cheese over each slice. Then, spoon the prepared tomato topping evenly over the cheese.
- Finish with Balsamic Glaze: Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and drizzle each piece with balsamic glaze to add a sweet and tangy finishing touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute goat cheese with cream cheese or Boursin cheese based on preference.
- To make the balsamic glaze at home, simmer balsamic vinegar until it reduces and thickens to a syrup consistency.
- For extra flavor, you can lightly rub the toasted bread with a cut garlic clove before spreading the cheese.
- This recipe serves 24 crostini, making it perfect for gatherings and parties.
- Store any leftovers separately to maintain bread crispness and freshness of toppings.
