Imagine biting into a crispy, golden crostini topped with creamy goat cheese and vibrant roasted red peppers that instantly transport you to the sun-drenched hills of Italy. This elegant yet simple appetizer is about to become your secret weapon for impressing guests, elevating dinner parties, or simply treating yourself to a gourmet moment. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 1 cup goat cheese
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Arrange the bread slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly brush each bread slice with olive oil, ensuring even coverage. This will help the crostini become golden and crisp.
- Bake the bread slices for 7-8 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- While the crostini are baking, prepare the roasted red peppers. If using jarred peppers, drain and pat them dry with paper towels. If roasting fresh peppers, slice them thinly after roasting and peeling.
- Remove the crostini from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes. This prevents the goat cheese from melting too quickly.
- Spread a generous layer of goat cheese on each crostini using a small offset spatula or butter knife.
- Top each goat cheese-covered crostini with slices of roasted red pepper, arranging them artfully.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, to add a bright, aromatic finish.
- Serve immediately while the crostini are still warm and crisp. Best enjoyed the same day they are prepared.
Tips
- • Use a fresh baguette for the best texture and crunch • Slice the bread diagonally for a more elegant presentation • Don't rush the baking process - watch carefully to achieve golden perfection • Use high-quality goat cheese for the most luxurious flavor • Fresh basil is key - chop or tear just before serving to maintain maximum aroma • Serve immediately after assembling to keep the crostini crisp • For extra flavor, try adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper • Can be prepared in advance by toasting bread and prepping ingredients separately
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
