Crostini with feta and tomatoes is a delightful appetizer that combines the crunch of toasted baguette slices with the fresh flavors of cherry tomatoes and the tangy taste of vegan feta cheese. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a light snack.
One ingredient you might not commonly have at home is vegan feta cheese. This dairy-free alternative to traditional feta is made from plant-based ingredients and can be found in the specialty or vegan section of most supermarkets. Make sure to check the label for any specific dietary needs.
Ingredients for Crostini with Feta and Tomatoes
Baguette: A French baguette sliced into ½ inch pieces, providing the base for the crostini.
Cherry tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
Vegan feta cheese: Crumbled vegan feta cheese offers a tangy and creamy texture without any dairy.
Olive oil: Used to brush the baguette slices before toasting, adding a rich flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the overall taste with its aromatic and savory notes.
Oregano: Dried oregano brings a hint of Mediterranean flavor to the topping mixture.
Salt and pepper: Season to taste, balancing the flavors and adding a touch of seasoning.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When brushing the baguette slices with olive oil, make sure to cover the edges as well. This ensures an even golden brown color and a crisp texture throughout. For an extra layer of flavor, you can infuse the olive oil with herbs like rosemary or thyme before brushing it on the baguette.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
French baguette - Substitute with sourdough bread: Sourdough bread has a similar texture and can be easily sliced and toasted for crostini.
Cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: Grape tomatoes have a similar sweetness and juiciness, making them a perfect alternative.
Vegan feta cheese - Substitute with vegan ricotta cheese: Vegan ricotta has a creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the tomatoes well.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for toasting the bread.
Garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can enhance the overall taste of the crostini.
Dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil offers a sweet and slightly peppery flavor that pairs well with tomatoes and vegan cheese.
Salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor and can enhance the taste of the other ingredients.
Pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder taste and can add a subtle heat without overpowering the other flavors.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store or Freeze This Recipe
Allow the crostini to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
Store the toasted baguette slices separately from the tomato and vegan feta mixture. This keeps the bread crisp and the topping fresh.
Place the toasted baguette slices in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For the tomato and vegan feta mixture, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
When ready to serve, reheat the baguette slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Top the reheated baguette slices with the chilled tomato and vegan feta mixture just before serving.
To freeze, first allow the toasted baguette slices to cool completely.
Place the cooled baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. This prevents them from sticking together.
Transfer the frozen baguette slices to a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
For the tomato and vegan feta mixture, freezing is not recommended as the texture of the tomatoes can become mushy upon thawing.
When ready to use, reheat the frozen baguette slices directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until crisp and warm.
Prepare a fresh batch of the tomato and vegan feta mixture to top the reheated baguette slices for the best flavor and texture.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the crostini on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the vegan feta from drying out. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
For a quicker method, use a toaster oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and place the crostini inside for 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't burn.
If you prefer using a microwave, place the crostini on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds. Note that this method may make the bread less crispy.
For a stovetop approach, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the crostini in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the vegan feta is warmed and the bread is crispy.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the crostini in the basket in a single layer and heat for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to preheat and bake the baguette slices until they are golden brown.
Baking sheet: A flat surface to arrange and bake the baguette slices.
Pastry brush: Utilized to brush olive oil onto the baguette slices evenly.
Mixing bowl: A bowl to combine cherry tomatoes, vegan feta, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Knife: Used to slice the baguette and mince the garlic.
Cutting board: A surface to safely slice the baguette and mince the garlic.
Measuring cups: To measure out the cherry tomatoes and vegan feta cheese accurately.
Measuring spoons: To measure the olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Serving platter: A plate or tray to arrange and serve the finished crostini.
Tongs: To handle the hot baguette slices after they come out of the oven.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-slice the baguette: Slice the baguette in advance and store it in an airtight container to save time when you're ready to assemble.
Pre-mix the topping: Combine the cherry tomatoes, vegan feta, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper ahead of time and refrigerate. This way, you can quickly top the toasted baguette slices.
Use a toaster oven: If you have a toaster oven, use it to toast the baguette slices faster and more efficiently.
Batch preparation: Prepare multiple batches of crostini at once and store them in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for a quick and easy appetizer.
Crostini with Feta and Tomatoes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 baguette French baguette sliced into ½ inch pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ cup vegan feta cheese crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, vegan feta, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Top each toasted baguette slice with the tomato and feta mixture.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Main Courses and Desserts for This Recipe
More Amazing Recipes to Try 🙂
- Herbes de Provence Recipe10 Minutes
- Gluten-Free Vegan Cinnamon Roll Recipe45 Minutes
- Gluten-Free Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe27 Minutes
- Garlic Mushroom Risotto Recipe40 Minutes
- Fruit Recipe10 Minutes
- Fig and Ricotta Crostini Recipe15 Minutes
- Dressing Recipe10 Minutes
- Chickpea Wrap Recipe25 Minutes
Leave a Reply