These Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Crostini are a tasty little treat! You get the crunch of toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and zesty pesto.
They make a perfect snack or party appetizer. I love how easy they are to whip up—just toast, layer, and enjoy! Who can resist that combo of flavors? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A French baguette is ideal for crostini because of its crispy crust. If you can’t find one, ciabatta or even a sourdough loaf works great too!
Pesto Sauce: You can use store-bought pesto for convenience, but homemade pesto is super easy and often tastes fresh. If you’re avoiding nuts, try substituting with sun-dried tomatoes blended with olive oil instead.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and perfect for this dish! If out of season, other tomatoes work too, just chop them into smaller pieces. I find that heirloom tomatoes add a beautiful color and flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella: For the best taste, use fresh mozzarella in water. If you need a lower-fat option, part-skim mozzarella is fine, though it may not be as creamy.
How Do I Get Toasted Bread Just Right?
Toasting the baguette slices properly is key to great crostini! Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even toasting.
- Place the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer to promote good airflow.
- Brush them lightly with olive oil; this helps achieve a golden-brown color.
- Keep an eye on them and toast for 5–7 minutes until they’re golden, adjusting time based on your oven.
Let them cool slightly before topping, so they stay crunchy and hold up to the toppings without getting soggy.
How to Make Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crostini:
- 1 French baguette, sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch slices
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For The Toppings:
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional), for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 5–7 minutes for toasting the bread in the oven. Overall, you can have these delicious crostini ready to serve in about 15 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your crostini will toast perfectly and have a nice golden color.
2. Toast the Baguette:
Arrange your baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil using a pastry brush or your fingers. Put them in the oven to toast for about 5–7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
3. Prepare Your Toppings:
While the bread is toasting, slice the fresh mozzarella into thin rounds and halve your cherry tomatoes. Set these aside so they are ready for assembly.
4. Assemble the Crostini:
Once your baguette slices are nicely toasted, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool for a minute. Spread about 1 teaspoon of pesto sauce evenly over each toasted slice. Then, place slices of fresh mozzarella on top, followed by the halved cherry tomatoes.
5. Season and Garnish:
Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the toppings, then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Finish by garnishing with thinly sliced fresh basil leaves and, if you like, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Crostini is now ready to be served! Enjoy these delightful bites while they’re fresh and warm.
These crostini are perfect for gatherings, parties, or even a cozy night in! Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time saver and still offers fantastic flavor. Just check the ingredients for a quality brand that you like. You can also make your own if you prefer a fresher taste!
How to Store Leftover Crostini?
For any leftover crostini, store the ingredients separately. Keep the toasted baguette slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate the toppings (pesto, mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil) in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reassemble just before serving to maintain crunch!
Can I Make These Crostini in Advance?
While toasted bread can get soggy if made too far in advance, you can prepare the toppings ahead of time! Slice the mozzarella and tomatoes, and mix the pesto, then refrigerate. Just assemble and toast your bread right before serving for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use shredded mozzarella or even goat cheese as an alternative. They’ll provide a different but delicious flavor profile!