Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup smoked buffalo ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Small mixing bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush them with olive oil.
3. Bake the baguette slices for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
4. In a small mixing bowl, combine the smoked buffalo ricotta cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly on each crostini.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
7. Serve immediately.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
This recipe makes 12 crostini.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 89
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 139mg
Sugar: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Regular ricotta cheese can be used instead of smoked buffalo ricotta cheese.
- Any type of bread can be used instead of baguette.
Variations:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the ricotta mixture for a burst of flavor.
- Top the crostini with sliced cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to brush the baguette slices with enough olive oil to ensure they become crispy.
- Use a garlic press to mince the garlic for a more even distribution of flavor.
Storage instructions:
Store the crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the crostini in the 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:
- A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- A side salad with mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette.
Suggested side dishes:
- A bowl of soup, such as tomato soup or minestrone.
- Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crostini are not crispy enough, bake them for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- If the ricotta mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to store the crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
- Use clean hands and utensils when handling food to prevent cross-contamination.
Food history:
Crostini is a traditional Italian appetizer that originated in Tuscany. It typically consists of toasted bread topped with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, vegetables, or cured meats.
Flavor profiles:
The smoked buffalo ricotta cheese adds a smoky and savory flavor to the crostini, while the garlic and basil add a fresh and herbaceous note.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the crostini as an appetizer at a dinner party or as a light lunch.
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Region: Italian