These Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Crostini are simple bites that pack a punch of flavor! With fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and zesty pesto on toasted bread, they’re sure to please everyone.
Perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer, they disappear quickly. I love how easy they are to put together – just a little assembly line action and you’re all set for a tasty treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette or Italian Bread: A crunchy baguette works well for the base. If you prefer something softer, use ciabatta or sourdough. Gluten-free bread is an excellent alternative if needed.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is easy, but making your own can be rewarding! You can substitute with sun-dried tomato pesto for a twist, or make it vegan by using nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
Fresh Mozzarella: If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, try using burrata for a creamier texture or regular mozzarella for a firmer bite. Don’t forget to drain any excess liquid to avoid sogginess!
Cherry Tomatoes: Feel free to use larger tomatoes; just dice them into smaller pieces. For a different taste, consider adding roasted red peppers as a topping.
Balsamic Glaze: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, a splash of balsamic vinegar will work, though it’s less sweet. You could also use a drizzle of olive oil with a touch of lemon juice.
How Do You Get Perfectly Toasted Bread for Crostini?
The key to great crostini is getting that perfect crunch without burning the bread. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) so the heat is just right.
- Brush the bread slices with olive oil before baking; this helps them crisp up nicely.
- Keep an eye on the bread while baking! Start checking at around 7 minutes to prevent over-toasting.
- Let them cool slightly after baking for extra crispness before adding toppings.
With these tips, you’re set to make delicious Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Crostini that everyone will love!
Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette or Italian bread, sliced into 1/2-inch thick slices
- 1/3 cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow if available)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling
- Olive oil, for brushing the bread
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes for baking, making it a quick and tasty option for any gathering or snack time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the bread will toast perfectly once you’re ready to bake.
2. Prepare the Bread:
On a baking sheet, lay out the sliced bread in a single layer. Use a brush to lightly coat each slice with olive oil. This helps the bread become golden and crispy as it bakes.
3. Bake the Bread:
Bake the bread slices for about 7-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn; you want them to be golden and crisp. Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool just a bit.
4. Add The Pesto:
Now it’s time to spread some love! Take the basil pesto and spread a generous layer on each piece of toasted bread. The pesto adds vibrant flavor, so don’t hold back!
5. Layer with Mozzarella:
Next, place slices of fresh mozzarella evenly on top of the pesto. The gooey mozzarella will melt slightly and pair wonderfully with the other flavors.
6. Top with Tomatoes:
Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the mozzarella. You can mix red and yellow cherry tomatoes for a beautiful color contrast!
7. Season It Up:
Sprinkle a little salt and freshly ground black pepper over the tomatoes. This adds a nice flavor boost and enhances the freshness of the ingredients.
8. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
Finish with a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy kick. This step really elevates the dish!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish each crostini with a fresh basil leaf. Then serve these delightful bites immediately while they are still warm and enjoy the flavors!
This recipe is perfect for entertaining or as a quick, elegant snack that everyone will appreciate. The combination of pesto, fresh mozzarella, and sweet tomatoes on crispy bread is a classic that never disappoints!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto Instead of Homemade?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a convenient option and still delivers delicious flavor. Just make sure to pick a high-quality version for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover crostini, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the bread may lose some crispness. To revive them, you can pop them back in the oven briefly to re-crisp before serving.
Can I Make These Crostini Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! To make them vegan, simply use a dairy-free pesto and substitute the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese or avocado for a creamy texture. They’re still just as tasty!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
The possibilities are endless! You can add sliced olives, roasted bell peppers, or even a spread of creamy goat cheese. Feel free to get creative and customize the toppings to your taste!