Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup Pecorino Fiorone cheese, grated
- 6 fresh figs, sliced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Brush each slice of baguette with olive oil and place on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the bread is toasted and golden brown.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey and balsamic vinegar.
5. Add the sliced figs to the bowl and toss to coat.
6. Top each crostini with grated Pecorino Fiorone cheese.
7. Place a few slices of the honey-balsamic coated figs on top of the cheese.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
This recipe makes 12 crostini.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 180
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 200mg
Sugar: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baguette can be substituted with any crusty bread.
- Pecorino Fiorone cheese can be substituted with Parmesan or Asiago cheese.
- Fresh figs can be substituted with dried figs or other seasonal fruits.
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.
- Substitute the honey-balsamic mixture with a fig jam or other fruit preserves.
- Add a slice of prosciutto or other cured meats on top of the cheese for a savory twist.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to slice the baguette evenly to ensure even toasting.
- Use a good quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Grate the cheese finely for easier melting and even distribution.
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 or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the crostini on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the cheese is not melting, place the crostini back in the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to wash the figs thoroughly before slicing.
Food History:
Crostini is a traditional Italian appetizer that dates back to medieval times. It was originally made with stale bread that was toasted and topped with various toppings.
Flavor Profiles:
This crostini has a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with the honey-balsamic coated figs and salty Pecorino Fiorone cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or as a light lunch or dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian