Crostini with white bean spread is a tasty and simple appetizer. Crispy bread topped with a creamy blend of white beans makes it both crunchy and smooth.
These little bites are perfect for gatherings. Plus, they’re so easy to make! I love serving them with a sprinkle of herbs on top for a fresh touch. Enjoy with friends and smiles! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette or Italian bread: A French baguette offers a crisp crust and soft inside, perfect for crostini. If you don’t have one, ciabatta or whole grain bread are great alternatives. Just ensure the bread slices are about 1/2 inch thick.
White beans: Cannellini or great northern beans provide a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a different flavor, you could use chickpeas instead. They will take on a slightly different taste, but still delicious!
Fresh herbs: Parsley and rosemary add a fresh touch. If you’re out of rosemary, try using thyme or basil for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs really brighten the dish!
Parmesan cheese: This adds a nice nuttiness to the spread. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese can work well. I find that adding a bit of nutritional yeast boosts the flavor nicely!
How Do You Get the Perfectly Toasted Crostini?
To achieve a crispy crostini, pay attention to the toasting process. This is key to balancing the creamy white bean spread! Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for even toasting.
- Brush each slice of bread lightly with olive oil to enhance crispiness.
- Arrange the bread in a single layer; this prevents steaming and allows for even browning.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them. You want a golden color and a nice crunch without burning!
- Let them cool slightly before adding the spread. This helps maintain crispness!
With these tips, your crostini will be perfectly crispy, ready to hold that creamy bean spread. Enjoy your cooking!
Crostini With White Bean Spread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 French baguette or Italian bread, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing bread)
For the White Bean Spread:
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped, plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for spread)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
- Additional whole white beans, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking, making a total of around 25 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for when you need a snack or appetizer in a pinch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crostini:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take your sliced bread and arrange it in a single layer on the baking sheet. Using a brush, lightly coat each piece of bread with olive oil to help them crisp up nicely.
2. Toast the Bread:
Once your oven is ready, bake the bread slices for about 8-10 minutes. Watch them closely—they should turn golden and crispy. When they’re done, take them out and let them cool for a moment. We want them crunchy!
3. Make the White Bean Spread:
Now it’s time for the star of the show! In a food processor or blender, combine your drained white beans, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, chopped rosemary, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend everything together until it’s nice and smooth. If your mixture feels a bit thick, add a little water or more olive oil to reach the desired consistency.
4. Season to Taste:
Give your white bean spread a taste and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. This little step makes a big difference!
5. Assemble the Crostini:
Take a generous spoonful of the white bean mixture and spread it over each toasted slice of bread. Feel free to be creative with the amount you use—more is often better!
6. Garnish:
For a lovely presentation, top each crostini with a couple of whole white beans, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), extra Parmesan cheese, and a sprig of rosemary or some extra chopped herbs.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the crostini on a beautiful serving platter and enjoy immediately. The combination of the crunchy bread and creamy spread is simply delightful!
Enjoy your delicious and elegant Crostini With White Bean Spread as a perfect appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Canned Beans for This Recipe?
Yes, canned white beans are perfect for this recipe! Just make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium. This keeps your spread light and fresh!
How Do I Store Leftover White Bean Spread?
Store any leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to use, give it a quick stir. If it thickens in the fridge, you can add a little olive oil or water to loosen it up.
Can I Make the Spread Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the white bean spread a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the crostini. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
What Other Toppings Can I Use for the Crostini?
The possibilities are endless! Feel free to add toppings like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor. Whichever toppings you choose, they will certainly enhance the dish!
