Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz. Mozzarella di Bufala, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and minced garlic.
4. Brush each baguette slice with the olive oil mixture.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until lightly toasted.
6. Remove from oven and top each slice with a slice of Mozzarella di Bufala.
7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves.
9. Serve warm.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 12-13 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Regular Mozzarella cheese can be used instead of Mozzarella di Bufala.
- Rosemary or thyme can be used instead of basil.
Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers on top of the Mozzarella before baking.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze on top of the crostini before serving.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to brush each baguette slice with the olive oil mixture to prevent them from becoming too dry.
- Be careful not to overcook the crostini, as the cheese can become rubbery.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the crostini on a baking sheet and bake in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes, until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the crostini on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is not melting, try broiling the crostini for 1-2 minutes instead of baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to store any leftover crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Food history:
- Crostini is a traditional Italian appetizer that dates back to the medieval times.
Flavor profiles:
- The Mozzarella di Bufala is creamy and slightly tangy, while the basil adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer before a pasta or pizza dinner.
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Region: Italian