Crostini
Crispy, golden-brown baguette slices brushed with olive oil and garlic. These little toasts are the perfect blank canvas for all your favorite appetizer toppings, from simple tomato and basil to creamy cheeses.
For 6 servings
6 steps.
- 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
- a.Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
Slice the baguette on a slight diagonal into ½-inch thick slices
- a.You should get about 24 slices.
- 3
Arrange the bread slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet
- a.Brush the tops of each slice with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
- 4
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crostini are light golden brown and crisp
- a.You can flip them halfway through for even toasting if you like.
- 5
Step 5
- a.While the crostini are still warm, gently rub the cut side of the halved garlic clove over the surface of each slice. This gives them a wonderful, subtle garlic flavor.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Serve the crostini warm, either plain or with your favorite toppings.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Day-old bread works best as it's firmer and easier to slice without squishing.
- 2Watch the crostini closely in the last few minutes of baking, as they can go from golden to burnt very quickly.
- 3Store cooled, plain crostini in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- 4For a richer flavor, you can use melted butter mixed with a little garlic powder instead of olive oil.
- 5Crostini are incredibly versatile. Top them with tomato bruschetta, olive tapenade, goat cheese and fig jam, or smoked salmon and dill cream cheese.
Adapt it for your goals.
Gluten free
Use your favorite gluten-free baguette. Slice and bake as directed, but keep a close eye on them as GF bread can brown faster.
healthyHealthy
Use a whole wheat baguette for extra fiber. Go lighter on the olive oil or use an oil mister to apply a thin, even coat.
quickQuick
For a faster method, place the oiled bread slices under the broiler for 1-2 minutes per side. Watch them constantly as they will burn in seconds.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Skip the raw garlic rub, which can be strong for kids. Instead, top the crostini with melted mozzarella cheese or a simple cream cheese spread.