When you’re looking for simple, delicious appetizers or quick bites for your next gathering, crostini are always a fantastic idea. I love how easy they are to put together, yet they feel so special and can please any taste.
Today, I’m sharing two of my favorite crostini recipes that are perfect for any occasion. You’ll find these quick small bites disappear fast, and they are so much fun to make and share.
Jump to Recipe:
Elegant Prosciutto Pear Gorgonzola Crostini Appetizers
These crostini bring together sweet, salty, and tangy tastes on a crisp piece of bread for a truly balanced bite. They are a wonderful choice for a simple yet impressive starter that everyone will enjoy at your next get-together.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Bread Choice: A good quality baguette is key for the best crunch. Slice it evenly, about half an inch thick.
- Ripe Pears: Use pears that are firm but slightly soft when you gently press them. This gives the best sweet and juicy flavor.
- Gorgonzola Quality: Choose a creamy Gorgonzola dolce for a milder, sweeter taste that balances well with the pear and prosciutto.
What You Need
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 4 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
- 4 oz gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: Drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze
⏱️ Time: 15 mins prep, 8-10 mins bake🍽️ Yields: 12-16 crostini
How to Make It
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush them lightly with olive oil. Bake for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden and crisp.
Step 2: Assemble Flavors
Once the bread is slightly cooled, place a small amount of crumbled gorgonzola on each slice. Top with a piece of prosciutto and a thin slice of pear.
Step 3: Warm and Serve
Return the assembled crostini to the oven for another 3-5 minutes, just until the cheese is slightly melted and the prosciutto warms through. If you like, finish with a light drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze before serving.
📝 Final Note
These are best served warm right after they come out of the oven for the best texture and flavor combination.
Simple Sautéed Mushroom Crostini Bites
Earthy mushrooms cooked with garlic and herbs piled high on toasted bread make a rustic and comforting bite. This recipe is straightforward, a quick small bite, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Mushroom Variety: A mix of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms adds more depth of flavor and texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley brightens the mushroom mixture. Add them at the very end of cooking to keep their vibrant taste.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: When sautéing mushrooms, cook them in batches if needed. Crowding the pan will steam them instead of giving them a nice golden sear.
What You Need
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 8 oz mixed mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Shaved Parmesan for garnish
⏱️ Time: 15 mins prep, 10 mins cook🍽️ Yields: 12-16 crostini
How to Make It
Step 1: Toast the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place baguette slices on a baking sheet, brush with a little olive oil, and bake for 5-7 minutes until crisp.
Step 2: Cook Mushrooms
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they release their liquid and start to turn golden.
Step 3: Flavor Boost
Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh thyme to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Spoon the warm mushroom mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Garnish with shaved Parmesan if you like, and serve immediately.
📝 Final Note
For extra flavor, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or vegetable broth after cooking the mushrooms and before adding garlic.
