These tasty crostini bring together crispy bread, sweet pears, rich gorgonzola, and savory prosciutto. They are perfect for a simple appetizer or snack!
Every bite is like a flavor party! You’ll want to share, but good luck not sneaking a few extra yourself. It’s too hard to resist! 😄
I love to serve these crostini at gatherings. They are easy to make and always impress my guests. Plus, they look fancy without all the fuss! Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A fresh baguette gives the best crunch. If you don’t have one, any crusty bread or even gluten-free bread will work well. Just make sure it’s sliced thick enough to hold the toppings!
Gorgonzola Cheese: This cheese adds a lovely tang. If blue cheese isn’t your thing, try goat cheese or feta for a milder flavor. They’ll still balance great with the pears and prosciutto.
Prosciutto: This Italian dry-cured ham is delicious but can be pricey. You could substitute with thinly sliced turkey or chicken for a lighter option, but you’ll miss that savory flavor.
Pears: Ripe, sweet pears are best for this recipe. If pears aren’t available, you can use apples or figs. Just make sure they are sweet to balance the saltiness of the prosciutto!
Sage: Fresh sage adds a wonderful aroma. You could use fresh thyme or rosemary instead if you prefer. They will give a different but tasty flavor to the crostini!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Toasted Bread for My Crostini?
Getting crispy crostini is all about the right toasting method. Preheat your oven well and keep an eye on the bread as it toasts. Here are some steps to follow:
- Slice your baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. This thickness helps them hold toppings without getting soggy.
- Brush both sides with olive oil to ensure a golden color and better crunch.
- Toast in the oven for 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Look for a nice golden color—keep a close watch as they can burn quickly!
Let them cool slightly after toasting so they stay crunchy when you add the toppings!
How to Make Prosciutto Pear Gorgonzola Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 ounces gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
- 6-8 slices prosciutto, cut in half or thirds
- Fresh sage leaves, for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Honey, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes for the cooking time. In total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes from start to finish, making it quick and easy for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps get your crostini extra crispy.
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Place the sliced baguette rounds on a baking sheet. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil, making sure to coat both sides for a nice golden color.
3. Toast the Bread:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and toast the bread for about 7-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should be golden and crisp but not burnt.
4. Assemble the Crostini:
Once the bread has cooled slightly, it’s time to top them! Spread a generous amount of crumbled gorgonzola cheese on each toasted slice.
5. Add the Pear and Prosciutto:
Next, place a few thin slices of pear over the cheese. Then, add a folded piece of prosciutto on top of the pear slices, making it look beautiful!
6. Garnish for Flavor:
Add a fresh sage leaf on each crostini for a lovely touch, and then sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper to taste. This enhances all the flavors wonderfully.
7. Sweeten it Up (Optional):
If you like a little sweetness, drizzle some honey over each crostini. It adds a fantastic balance to the savory flavors!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the crostini immediately while they’re warm and crispy. These bites are perfect for sharing—though you might find it hard to give them up!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While a baguette is ideal, you can use any crusty bread, ciabatta, or even gluten-free options. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
How Do I Store Leftover Crostini?
To maintain their crispness, store the toasted bread slices separately from the toppings. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Assemble them fresh when ready to serve!
Can I Make These Crostini Without Gorgonzola?
Definitely! If you’re not a fan of gorgonzola, try substituting it with goat cheese, feta, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile that still pairs well with pears and prosciutto.
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
The possibilities are endless! Consider adding caramelized onions, walnuts for crunch, or a sprinkle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Feel free to get creative with your toppings!
