Homemade Garlic Herb Crostini

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Homemade Garlic Herb Crostini

Introduction

Crostini means “little toasts” in Italian — they’re thin slices of bread, brushed with olive oil and seasonings, then baked until crispy. Perfect for serving with dips, cheese, or spreads, they’re an easy way to elevate leftover bread into a gourmet treat.

Ingredients

  • 1 fresh baguette or rustic loaf (not moldy!)
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or parsley), finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare Bread:
    Slice the fresh bread into 1/4-inch (0.5 cm) thick slices. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  3. Make Garlic Herb Oil:
    In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
  4. Brush Slices:
    Using a pastry brush, lightly brush both sides of each bread slice with the garlic herb oil mixture.
  5. Bake:
    Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, then flip each slice and bake for another 5–7 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
  6. Cool:
    Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
  7. Serve or Store:
    Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Methods

  • Variation: Add grated Parmesan before baking for a cheesy version.
  • Serve: Pair with soups, salads, cheese platters, or spreads like hummus or bruschetta topping.

History

Crostini originated in medieval Italy when peasants used slices of stale bread instead of ceramics to serve toppings. Over time, it became a staple antipasto in Italian cuisine.

Benefits

  • Easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • Reduces food waste by using leftover fresh bread.
  • Versatile for sweet or savory toppings.

Formation

Crostini are a great way to get creative: top with tomatoes and basil, smoked salmon and cream cheese, or even sweet spreads like Nutella for dessert crostini.

Nutrition (per slice, approx.)

  • Calories: ~50
  • Fat: ~3g
  • Carbs: ~5g
  • Protein: ~1g

Conclusion

Homemade crostini are the perfect way to elevate your appetizer game, impress guests, or just enjoy a crispy snack at home

** Crostini Lovers**
Crostini are beloved by food lovers around the world for their crunch, flavor, and endless topping possibilities!

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