Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Casentino cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush each baguette slice with the olive oil mixture.
4. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the grated Pecorino Casentino cheese over each crostini.
6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
8. Serve warm.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe makes 12 crostini.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baguette can be substituted with any crusty bread.
- Pecorino Casentino cheese can be substituted with any hard, salty cheese such as Parmesan or Romano.
- Fresh parsley can be substituted with any fresh herb such as basil or thyme.
Variations:
- Add sliced cherry tomatoes on top of the cheese before baking for a burst of freshness.
- Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy twist.
- Add chopped garlic to the olive oil mixture for a garlic-infused crostini.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to slice the baguette evenly to ensure even baking.
- Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Don't over-bake the crostini or the cheese will become too hard.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat, place the crostini on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Arrange the crostini on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of red wine for a perfect pairing.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve with a side salad or soup for a complete meal.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the crostini are too hard, reduce the baking time.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to store leftover crostini in the refrigerator to prevent foodborne illness.
Food History:
- Pecorino Casentino cheese is a hard, salty cheese that is made in the Casentino valley in Tuscany, Italy.
Flavor Profiles:
- The crostini are savory and salty with a crispy texture and a hint of fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack.
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Region: Italian