Crostini with white bean spread is a tasty snack that’s easy to make! You simply mash white beans with garlic, lemon, and olive oil, then spread it on crunchy toasted bread.
This dish is perfect for sharing, and honestly, who can resist a crispy piece of bread topped with creamy goodness? I love serving it at parties or even for a cozy night in with a friend!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A classic choice for crostini, its crispy crust and soft inside offer a great texture. If you can’t find a baguette, use any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough. Just cut it into similar-sized slices for even toasting.
Cannellini Beans: These creamy white beans are perfect for spreading. If you’re looking for an alternative, navy beans or great northern beans work just as well. For a different flavor, you could try using cooked chickpeas.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness. If you don’t have it, avocado oil or any light vegetable oil are good substitutes, though they might change the flavor slightly. Try using flavored oils for a fun twist!
Fresh Parsley: This brightens up the dish, but if you need a substitute, fresh chives or basil can offer a different taste. For a punchy kick, add some fresh dill!
How Do I Make Sure My Crostini Are Perfectly Toasted?
To get that ideal crispy texture on your crostini, here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before putting them in. This ensures even cooking.
- Brush each slice of bread lightly with olive oil on both sides; this helps achieve that golden color.
- Keep an eye on them! Toast for only 5-7 minutes and flip halfway through. Remove them when they’re just golden brown, not dark.
- Rubbing the toasted bread with raw garlic gives a fresh flavor. Just a gentle rub will add a nice touch without overpowering the dish.
Crostini With White Bean Spread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans (white beans), drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for brushing bread
- 1 small garlic clove, minced, plus 1 whole garlic clove for rubbing bread
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 7 minutes to cook. With just a little time, you can whip up this delicious crostini for any gathering or as a simple snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your crostini will toast evenly and turn out perfectly crispy.
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Take your baguette and slice it into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Then, arrange the slices on a baking sheet. Lightly brush each side of the slices with olive oil to help them toast beautifully.
3. Toast the Bread:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Toast the baguette slices for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through so they become golden and crispy on both sides. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
4. Add Garlic Flavor:
Once the crostini are out of the oven and warm, take the whole garlic clove and rub one side of each toasted slice. This will give your crostini a lovely, subtle garlic flavor.
5. Blend the White Bean Spread:
In a food processor or blender, combine the drained cannellini beans, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed!
6. Assemble the Crostini:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take a generous spoonful of the creamy white bean spread and spread it on each toasted baguette slice.
7. Garnish for Extra Flavor:
To make your crostini even more delightful, garnish each piece with chopped fresh parsley. If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top too!
8. Final Touch:
Right before serving, drizzle just a bit more olive oil over the top of each crostini for that extra touch of flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the crostini immediately. Enjoy the creamy, crispy goodness that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own!
This simple crostini features a creamy white bean spread with bright lemon and garlic notes, making it an ideal choice for entertaining or a light snack anytime!
Can I Use Different Beans for the Spread?
Absolutely! While cannellini beans give a creamy texture, you can also use navy beans or great northern beans. If you’re feeling adventurous, chickpeas can add a different flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftover Crostini?
If you have leftover crostini, store the toasted bread and the white bean spread separately. The toasted bread can be kept in an airtight container for up to 2 days, while the spread can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just re-toast the bread before serving again.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can make the white bean spread a day or two ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just keep the baguette slices uncooked until you’re ready to serve, so they stay crunchy!
What Can I Serve with the Crostini?
These crostini are great on their own, but you can serve them alongside a simple salad, olives, or a cheese platter for a complete appetizer spread. They also pair wonderfully with wine!
