Description
Caprese Crostini are delightful bite-sized canapés featuring toasted baguette slices topped with melted fresh mozzarella, juicy roma tomatoes, and a flavorful basil-balsamic drizzle. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, these crostini capture the classic Italian Caprese salad flavors in an easy-to-make finger food.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 long baguette, sliced into 1/2″ thick rings
- Olive oil, for brushing the baguette slices
Toppings
- 2-3 roma tomatoes, sliced into 1/4″ thick rings
- Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4″ thick rounds, width matching the baguette slices
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced
Basil-Balsamic Dressing
- 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare and toast the bread: Slice the baguette into 1/2″ thick rounds and lightly brush both sides with extra virgin olive oil. Place on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350˚F (175˚C) for 5 minutes until the slices are lightly crisped. Toasting keeps the bread from becoming soggy when topped.
- Add toppings and melt cheese: Place a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese on each toasted baguette piece, then add a slice of roma tomato on top. Lightly sprinkle each with salt and black pepper. Return to the 350˚F oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Make marinated basil dressing: While crostini bake, combine 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar and 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a small ramekin. Add the thinly sliced fresh basil and gently mix to coat the leaves in the dressing. This step should be done a few minutes before the crostini finish baking to maintain basil freshness.
- Assemble and serve: Once crostini are baked and cheese is melted, remove from oven and top each piece with a spoonful of the marinated basil mixture. Serve immediately as a flavorful appetizer or canapé.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh mozzarella that matches the width of your baguette slices to ensure even layering.
- Baking the bread first prevents it from becoming soggy when topped with cheese and tomato.
- The marinated basil adds a fresh and tangy component; prepare it shortly before serving to maintain the bright flavor of basil.
- Customize the balsamic vinegar quantity based on your taste preference for acidity.
- This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and perfect for summer gatherings or holiday parties.
