This Brie and prosciutto crostini is a tasty bite-sized treat! With creamy brie and salty prosciutto on toasted bread, it’s perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in.
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness paired with the savory meat? I could munch on these all day and still want more! They’re quick to make and always a hit.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette or French Bread: A crusty baguette gives a wonderful crunch, but you can swap it for other types like ciabatta or sourdough if you prefer. Just ensure the bread can hold up with the toppings!
Brie Cheese: Brie offers a rich, creamy taste. If you want a lower-fat option, you could use a similar cheese like Camembert or even a soft goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
Prosciutto: This adds a nice salty kick! If you need a substitute, consider using cooked ham or turkey for a leaner option. Aged cheddar can also work in a pinch for a different flavor profile.
Arugula: Fresh arugula gives a peppery taste and bright color. If you can’t find arugula, use spinach or mixed greens instead.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a sweet finish. If you want to skip it, a drizzle of olive oil with a squeeze of lemon juice can give a refreshing zing.
How Do I Toast the Bread Perfectly?
Toasting the bread correctly is key for great crostini. You want them crispy outside but still able to hold toppings without getting soggy. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place sliced bread on a baking sheet and lightly brush it with olive oil on both sides.
- Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Keep an eye on them, as different ovens can vary in temperature. You want a nice golden-brown color!
This will result in the perfect base for your Brie and prosciutto. Enjoy!
Brie and Prosciutto Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette or crusty French bread, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced
- 6 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh arugula leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil, for brushing bread
- Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling
- Optional: freshly ground black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful crostini takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for toasting the bread until crispy.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Lay the slices of baguette on a baking sheet. Use a brush to lightly coat both sides of each slice with olive oil. This will help them crisp up nicely in the oven.
3. Toast the Bread:
Toast the bread in the oven for about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through so that both sides get evenly golden and crispy.
4. Cool the Bread:
Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will make it easier to handle when you add the toppings.
5. Add Brie:
Place a slice of Brie on each piece of toasted bread. If you prefer your cheese a bit melty, pop them back in the oven for about 1-2 minutes to warm the Brie.
6. Top with Prosciutto:
After adding the Brie, gently drape a slice of prosciutto over the cheese on each crostini. The salty flavor of the prosciutto pairs beautifully with the creamy Brie.
7. Add Arugula:
Top each crostini with a few fresh arugula leaves. They add a nice peppery crunch and a pop of color!
8. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
Finally, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the crostini for a delicious sweet and tangy finish.
9. Add Pepper (Optional):
If you like a little kick, sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper on top to enhance the flavors.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these lovely crostini immediately. They’re best enjoyed fresh and warm, so gather your friends and dig in!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for Crostini?
Absolutely! While a baguette is traditional, you can use ciabatta, sourdough, or any crusty bread you prefer. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the toppings!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the prosciutto and consider adding roasted red peppers or marinated artichokes for a flavorful alternative. You could also add more veggies like sliced heirloom tomatoes!
Can I Prepare These Crostini in Advance?
Yes! You can toast the bread ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for a day. Just wait to add the Brie, prosciutto, and arugula until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Unfortunately, these crostini are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for up to 1 day, but they may lose their crispiness. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to help revive them!
