Crostini… party-perfect canapes!
A selection of variously-topped crostini make perfect little nibbles for serving as dinner party hors d’oeuvre or for setting out on the buffet table for larger crowds. These crunchy baguette slices can be topped with whatever suits your fancy or budget.
Start by toasting baguette slices brushed with a little extra virgin olive oil and freshly ground salt and pepper in a preheated 375°F oven until golden brown; about 12-15 minutes. Remove from oven, and let cool to room temperature before topping.
For an added flavour boost, you can spread the baguette slices with garlic purée before adding the toppings of your choice – use either store-bought roasted garlic purée or simply make your own.
You will need:
- Baguette loaf, sliced at a 45° angle about 1/2-inch thick
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Salt and pepper
- Roasted Garlic Purée, store-bought or homemade, optional
Choice of toppings:
- Cheese – blue, Parmesan, goat, mozzarella, ricotta
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Asparagus
- Black Olive tapenade
- Prosciutto
- Roma tomatoes, yellow and red bell pepper, avocado
- Fresh basil leaves
- Capers
- Smoked Salmon
- Balsamic Vinegar
- Pesto
- Anchovies
- Hummus
- Strawberries, figs, pear
Suggestions:
- Avocado mashed lightly with salt and lime juice; topped with shrimp.
- Black Olive tapenade; top with asparagus spear.
- Gorgonzola topped with freshly sliced pear and drizzled with honey.
- Chopped red and yellow peppers, Roma tomatoes, and chiffonade basil; drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
- Stilton, topped with thin slices of prosciutto.
- Pesto; topped with shaved Parmesan.
- Cream cheese with dill; topped with smoked salmon.
- Pesto; top with thin slices of sun-dried tomato.
- Brie cheese; top with thinly sliced ham and a dab of mustard.
- Creamy goat cheese; top with thinly sliced roast beef and roasted red pepper.
- Hummus; topped with roasted red pepper.
