Easy Caprese Crostini Appetizer – A Fresh, Flavorful Bite for Any Occasion
If you’re looking for a quick, elegant appetizer that’s bursting with fresh flavors, look no further than these Easy Caprese Crostini. Inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad, this recipe combines creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil on a crisp baguette slice, all topped with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or a light snack!
Recipe: Easy Caprese Crostini Appetizer
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: 90 kcal per serving
Servings: 12
Ingredients
- Half of a French baguette, sliced into rounds
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 12 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 12 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 12 fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- 1 tbsp coarse salt
- 3 tbsp balsamic glaze
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crostini
- Preheat the Broiler
- Preheat your broiler. Slice the French baguette into rounds and brush both sides of each slice with olive oil.
- Toast the Bread
- Arrange the bread slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place them under the broiler or in a toaster oven and toast until the top side is golden brown.
- Flip and Broil Again
- Remove the bread, flip each slice, and broil again until the other side is golden brown.
- Add Garlic Flavor
- Once toasted, remove the bread from the oven and rub one side of each piece with a peeled garlic clove for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the Crostini
- Layer the Ingredients
- On each crostini, place a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese and a slice of tomato (or half of a cherry tomato).
- Season and Garnish
- Sprinkle a pinch of coarse salt over the tomatoes, then drizzle each crostini with balsamic glaze.
- Add Fresh Basil
- Generously top each crostini with torn or chopped fresh basil for a burst of aromatic flavor.
- Serve Immediately
- For the best taste and crunch, serve the Caprese crostini immediately. Enjoy!
Tips for Making Perfect Caprese Crostini
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Since this dish is so simple, high-quality fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil make all the difference.
- Homemade Balsamic Glaze: If you don’t have balsamic glaze on hand, make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it reduces and thickens.
- Serve Immediately: For the ultimate crunch and flavor, assemble and serve these crostini just before eating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Caprese Crostini brings together simple, fresh ingredients in a deliciously elegant bite-sized treat. Each crostini combines the creamy mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil with a hint of garlic and the tangy sweetness of balsamic glaze. It’s a classic flavor combination that’s easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining or a refreshing snack.
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Easy Caprese Crostini Appetizer
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 1x
Description
This Caprese Crostini is a delightful appetizer that combines the best of fresh Italian flavors. With creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil on a crispy baguette slice, this dish is drizzled with a sweet, tangy balsamic glaze. Each bite offers a perfect blend of texture and taste, making it an ideal choice for parties, gatherings, or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Half of a French baguette, sliced into rounds
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
12 cherry tomatoes
12 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
12 fresh basil leaves
1 tbsp coarse salt
3 tbsp balsamic glaze
Instructions
Make the Crostini:
Preheat the broiler. Slice the French baguette into rounds and brush both sides of each slice with olive oil.
Arrange the bread slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place under the broiler or in a toaster oven and toast until the top side is golden brown.
Remove the bread, flip each slice, and broil again until the other side is also golden brown.
Once toasted, remove the bread from the oven and rub one side of each piece with a peeled garlic clove for added flavor.
Assemble the Crostini:
On each crostini, place a slice of mozzarella cheese and a slice of tomato (or half of a cherry tomato).
Sprinkle a pinch of coarse salt over the tomatoes.
Drizzle the crostini with balsamic glaze and generously top with torn or chopped fresh basil.
Serve immediately for the best flavor and crunch. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 90