I’m holding onto summer for as long as I can with this Balsamic Glazed Strawberry Crostini. The combination of tangy balsamic glaze, fresh strawberries, and creamy ricotta cheese on top of a crunchy baguette slice makes for a simple but amazingly good appetiser. You could also enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, a quick (and easy) lunch, or on your next picnic.
This is hands down the simplest appetiser. All you need is a good amount of ricotta cheese, fresh herbs, a baguette and of course some lovely fresh strawberries.
Prep the bread first by slicing it up and drizzling with olive oil and salt and pepper. Pop in the oven until it turns golden and crispy. I like to use a crusty baguette, but really any bread will work.
While that’s in the oven, make the glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar with honey and red pepper flakes for a little kick. When it has thickened nicely, toss half with some sliced strawberries an reserve the rest for drizzling. Alternatively, you can just buy caramelised balsamic vinegar which is the same thing but without the effort!
Spread a healthy amount of ricotta over the warm toasted bread, top with strawberries, and drizzle generously with the balsamic glaze. Finish with fresh basil and mint. Or any herbs you have on hand.
And that’s it… it doesn’t get any easier really.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to use a good quality balsamic vinegar for the glaze. The better the vinegar, the better the glaze will taste.
- Be careful not to overcook the balsamic glaze. It should be thick and syrupy, but not burnt or caramelised.
- The crostinis are best served immediately after assembling, as they can become soggy if left out for too long.
- For the herbs, you can use any mix of fresh herbs that you like the best. I find basil and mint to pair perfectly with sweet strawberries, but chopped chives, thyme, rosemary, or oregano could be great too.
- While strawberries are my go-to, it’s always fun to experiment. Try using raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries for something different. Even peaches would be epic.
More quick and delicious appetisers you will love:
- Chilli lime and coriander crispy potatoes
- Pear and brie bites with prosciutto
- Whipped ricotta toast with burst tomatoes and spicy honey
- Baked feta with garlic and herb olives
And finally, if you like this Balsamic Glazed Strawberry Crostini be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! I love to hear from you guys. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram!
BALSAMIC GLAZED STRAWBERRY CROSTINI
Course: AppetisersDifficulty: Easy4
servings5
minutes10
minutes15
minutesA sweet, creamy and tangy appetiser that comes together quick and is super delicious.
Ingredients
1 baguette, sliced diagonally into 1/2 inch slices
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons honey
2 punnets fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup ricotta cheese
fresh basil leaves
fresh mint
Directions
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil. Grill (broil) in the oven at 190°C (375°F) for 5 minutes, or until they’re lightly browned and crispy.
- While the baguette is baking, make the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced strawberries with half of the balsamic glaze.
- Spread a teaspoon of ricotta cheese onto each baguette slice. Top the ricotta with a spoonful of the balsamic-glazed strawberries. Drizzle the remaining balsamic glaze over the top and season with salt. Garnish with basil and mint and serve immediately.
