Crostini with tomato and basil is a delightful appetizer that brings together the fresh flavors of cherry tomatoes and basil on a crispy baguette. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for entertaining or as a light snack.
If you don't usually have cherry tomatoes or fresh basil at home, you might need to pick them up at the supermarket. These ingredients are essential for the fresh and vibrant taste of this recipe. Make sure to also grab a fresh baguette if you don't have one on hand.
Ingredients For Crostini Tomato Basil Recipe
Baguette: A French bread that is sliced into ½ inch pieces, perfect for making crispy crostini.
Cherry tomatoes: Small, sweet tomatoes that are halved for the topping.
Basil: Fresh, aromatic herb that is chopped and mixed with the tomatoes.
Olive oil: Used to brush the baguette slices and add flavor to the topping.
Garlic: Minced to add a subtle, savory depth to the tomato mixture.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and balances the flavors.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing the baguette, make sure to slice it evenly to ensure uniform toasting. To enhance the flavor, you can rub a cut clove of garlic on the warm, toasted bread before adding the tomato mixture. This will infuse the crostini with a subtle garlic aroma.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
baguette - Substitute with gluten-free baguette: This ensures the dish is suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: They have a similar sweetness and texture, making them an excellent alternative.
fresh basil - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Cilantro provides a different but equally fresh and vibrant flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a mild flavor that works well in this recipe.
minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though it has a slightly different intensity and flavor profile.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex flavor due to its mineral content.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be a good alternative if you prefer a less pungent taste.
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How to Store or Freeze This Recipe
- Allow the baguette slices to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
- Store the toasted baguette slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they lose their crispiness, you can re-toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
- For the tomato basil mixture, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. However, it's best to consume it as soon as possible for optimal flavor and texture.
- If you need to freeze the baguette slices, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen slices to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen baguette slices, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes or until they are crispy again.
- Avoid freezing the tomato basil mixture as the texture of the tomatoes and basil will degrade upon thawing, resulting in a mushy consistency.
- When ready to serve, simply top the reheated baguette slices with the fresh tomato basil mixture and enjoy immediately.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the leftover crostini on a baking sheet. Bake for about 5-7 minutes until the baguette slices are crispy and the tomato topping is warmed through.
For a quicker option, use a toaster oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and place the crostini inside for 5-7 minutes. This method ensures the baguette remains crispy while the tomato topping heats up.
If you prefer using a stovetop, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the crostini in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 3-4 minutes, checking frequently to ensure the baguette doesn't burn.
For those in a rush, the microwave can be used, though it may make the baguette less crispy. Place the crostini on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 30-45 seconds. To retain some crispiness, you can place a paper towel underneath.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the crostini in the basket and heat for 3-4 minutes. This method helps maintain the crisp texture of the baguette while warming the tomato topping.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to preheat and bake the baguette slices until they are golden brown and crispy.
Baking sheet: Holds the baguette slices while they bake in the oven.
Pastry brush: Used to brush olive oil onto both sides of the baguette slices.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Knife: Used to slice the baguette, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the fresh basil.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for slicing the baguette and chopping the ingredients.
Garlic press: Used to mince the garlic clove.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the cherry tomatoes and chopped fresh basil.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the olive oil.
Serving platter: Used to arrange and serve the crostini topped with the tomato mixture.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Preheat efficiently: Preheat your oven while you prepare the baguette slices and tomato mixture to save time.
Use a food processor: Quickly chop the basil and mince the garlic using a food processor.
Batch preparation: Slice the entire baguette at once and arrange on the baking sheet to streamline the process.
Mix ahead: Prepare the tomato mixture in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
Multitask: While the baguette slices are baking, clean up your prep area to save time on post-cooking cleanup.
Crostini Tomato Basil Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 baguette French baguette sliced into ½ inch pieces
- 2 cups Cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup Fresh basil chopped
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Top each baguette slice with the tomato mixture and serve immediately.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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