Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch thick slices
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Spread the ricotta mixture on each toasted baguette slice.
6. Top each slice with diced tomatoes.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
Makes 12 crostini
Nutritional information:
Calories: 93
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 140mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baguette can be substituted with any crusty bread.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese or feta cheese.
- Tomatoes can be substituted with roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes.
Variations:
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy flavor.
- Top with sliced black olives for a salty kick.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for some heat.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a serrated knife to slice the baguette for even slices.
- Make sure the baguette slices are not too thin to hold the toppings.
- If the ricotta mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the crostini in a preheated oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated 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 white wine or a refreshing cocktail.
Suggested side dishes:
- Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Grilled vegetables
- Roasted potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the baguette slices are too thin, they may become soggy from the toppings. Use thicker slices or toast the bread longer to prevent this.
- If the ricotta mixture is too thin, add more ricotta cheese to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store leftover crostini in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.
Food history:
Crostini is a traditional Italian appetizer that originated in Tuscany. It is typically made with toasted bread topped with various toppings such as cheese, vegetables, or meats.
Flavor profiles:
The crostini has a crunchy texture from the toasted bread and a creamy texture from the ricotta cheese. The tomatoes add a fresh and juicy flavor, while the garlic and olive oil add a savory and aromatic flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or a light lunch.
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Region: Italian