Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Crostini are the perfect little bites for any get-together! Crisp bread topped with fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and zesty pesto brings lots of flavor.
These crostini are super easy to make, and they disappear quickly at parties! I love serving them with a sprinkle of fresh basil for that extra pop. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A French or Italian baguette is ideal for crostini because it toasts nicely. If you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free bread or even baguette-style gluten-free alternatives.
Pesto: Fresh basil pesto adds a vibrant flavor. If you’re short on fresh basil, you can use a store-bought version or make it using spinach or arugula instead for a different twist.
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using fresh mozzarella because it melts beautifully. In a pinch, you can use regular mozzarella cheese, or for a more robust flavor, try burrata cheese.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add sweetness and a pop of color. Substitute with diced sun-dried tomatoes for a concentrated flavor, or use sliced heirloom tomatoes when they’re in season for an extra flavor boost.
How Do I Toast the Bread Perfectly Without Burning It?
Toasting the bread just right is crucial for great crostini. Here are some tips to ensure you get crispy and golden slices:
- Use a medium-high oven temperature (around 375°F/190°C) so the bread toasts evenly.
- Keep an eye on them as they toast. Ovens can vary, so check for golden-brown edges after 5 minutes.
- Brush the bread lightly with olive oil. Too much oil can make it soggy, while too little may cause it to stick.
Let the toasted slices cool for a minute before topping them, as it will help maintain their crunch! Enjoy making your crostini!
Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 French baguette or Italian baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick slices
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and another 15 minutes of cooking time for a total of around 30 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely mouth-watering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A good hot oven will help create that perfect crispy texture for your crostini.
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices and arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures even toasting for each piece.
3. Brush with Olive Oil:
Lightly brush each slice with olive oil. This will help them toast up nicely and give a lovely flavor. Don’t overdo it; just a light coat will be perfect!
4. Toast the Bread:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast the baguette slices for about 5-7 minutes, checking frequently. You want them to be golden brown and crisp, but not burnt!
5. Spread the Pesto:
Once toasted, remove the bread from the oven and generously spread basil pesto on each slice. The more pesto, the better, as it adds lots of flavors!
6. Add the Mozzarella:
Top each crostini with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese, making sure to cover the pesto well for a rich cheesy goodness.
7. Add Cherry Tomatoes:
Place the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the mozzarella. They will add a bright, fresh taste that complements the pesto and cheese wonderfully.
8. Bake Again:
Put the crostini back in the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the mozzarella starts to melt and gets bubbly. Keep an eye on them!
9. Season and Garnish:
Once they’re out of the oven, season to taste with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick. Optionally, add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Your crostini are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm or at room temperature on a wooden board or platter. They make a fantastic appetizer or snack!
Enjoy these vibrant and flavorful Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Crostini as a perfect crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto Instead of Homemade?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a convenient option and can save you time. Just be sure to choose a quality brand for the best flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make these crostini gluten-free, simply use gluten-free baguette alternatives or other gluten-free bread options. Just follow the same toasting instructions, and you’ll have a delicious appetizer!
What Can I Do with Leftover Crostini?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. While they taste best fresh, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain some crispness.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your crostini. Add ingredients like olives, roasted peppers, or arugula for different flavors and textures. Just keep in mind that moisture content can affect the crispiness of the bread.
