There is something truly magical about a Balsamic Strawberries Crostini Recipe that combines sweet, tangy, and creamy elements into a single bite of deliciousness. This delightful appetizer is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself, featuring juicy strawberries kissed by a rich balsamic glaze atop crunchy toasted baguette slices. Creamy ricotta adds that subtle smoothness that balances the flavors, making every mouthful an irresistible dance of taste and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Balsamic Strawberries Crostini Recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that work beautifully together to create a refreshing and elegant dish. Each item has its role—from the sweet strawberries to the sharp tang of balsamic vinegar, and the soft creaminess of ricotta, if you choose to use it.
- ½ cup strawberries: Fresh and juicy, chopped into small pieces for easy topping.
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar: The star ingredient for that rich, tangy reduction that elevates the strawberries.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a burst of bright citrus aroma to complement the sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar: Sweetens and balances the acidity in the balsamic reduction.
- 5 tablespoons ricotta (optional): Creamy and mild, perfect for spreading on the crostini before adding the strawberries.
- Baguette slices: Toasted until golden and crisp, providing the perfect base.
How to Make Balsamic Strawberries Crostini Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Baguette
Begin by slicing your baguette into thin slices and toast them at 350°F for about 5 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown and become delightfully crunchy. This crispness is essential because it holds up beautifully against the juicy toppings without getting soggy.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries
Chop the strawberries into small, bite-sized pieces. If your strawberries are especially ripe and juicy, let them rest on a paper towel for a few minutes to absorb any excess moisture. This step ensures your crostini won’t become watery but stays fresh and flavorful.
Step 3: Make the Balsamic Reduction
In a small saucepan over medium heat, pour in the balsamic vinegar and add the brown sugar. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens into a rich, syrupy glaze. This balsamic reduction is what brings a deeply complex and tangy sweetness to the strawberries, making them irresistible.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Now, toss the chopped strawberries with the lemon zest to brighten the flavor. Pour the warm balsamic reduction over the strawberries and gently stir everything together. The glaze will coat each piece, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Crostini
If you’re using ricotta, spread a generous layer over each toasted baguette slice. Then pile on the balsamic strawberries, allowing the creamy ricotta to balance out the tangy-sweet topping perfectly. If you prefer, simply top without ricotta for a lighter version—either way, it’s divine.
How to Serve Balsamic Strawberries Crostini Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like mint or basil add a fresh, aromatic touch and vibrant green color that makes the crostini pop on the plate. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper can introduce a subtle spice that contrasts beautifully with the sweet strawberries and balsamic glaze.
Side Dishes
This appetizer pairs wonderfully with light salads featuring greens like arugula or baby spinach, drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette. It also complements a cheese platter, where the contrast between tangy fruit and sharp cheeses creates a memorable spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the balsamic strawberries in small glass jars alongside toasted crostini for a trendy deconstructed approach. For parties, arrange the crostini on a wooden board with edible flowers for a rustic, elegant feel that instantly impresses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the balsamic strawberries separately from the crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy and keeps the flavors fresh for up to two days.
Freezing
Because the crostini’s texture is crucial, freezing is not recommended for assembled crostini. However, you can freeze the toasted baguette slices separately and toast them again when ready to use. The balsamic strawberries are best enjoyed fresh and should not be frozen as they will lose their texture.
Reheating
If your toasted baguette slices cool down, simply warm them for a few minutes in the oven at 350°F before assembling. Avoid reheating the strawberries as the warmth could break down their texture and sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Fresh strawberries are best because they hold their texture and sweetness better, but if you only have frozen, thaw them gently and drain excess juice before use to avoid sogginess.
Is ricotta necessary for the Balsamic Strawberries Crostini Recipe?
While ricotta adds a creamy layer that balances the tartness, the recipe works wonderfully without it for a lighter, more fruit-forward experience.
Can I make the balsamic reduction ahead of time?
Absolutely! The balsamic reduction can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Warm it gently before mixing with strawberries for the best flavor integration.
What type of bread works best for crostini?
A baguette is ideal due to its firm crust and airy interior, which crisps up perfectly when toasted, but any crusty bread sliced thinly will work.
How long does the assembled crostini last?
Because of the fresh strawberries and toasted bread, it’s best to assemble and serve the crostini immediately. If you must prepare ahead, keep components separate and combine just before serving.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Balsamic Strawberries Crostini Recipe enough for those moments when you want something light, fresh, and incredibly impressive with minimal effort. The wonderful balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout appetizer that wins hearts every time. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy strawberries!
Print
Balsamic Strawberries Crostini Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Balsamic Strawberries are a delightful and simple recipe combining sweet, ripe strawberries with a rich balsamic reduction. Perfect as a fresh topping on toasted baguette slices with a creamy ricotta spread, this dish makes an elegant appetizer or snack that balances sweetness, tang, and creamy textures.
Ingredients
Strawberries and Topping
- ½ cup strawberries, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 5 tablespoons ricotta cheese (optional, for serving)
Balsamic Reduction
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
Bread
- Baguette slices, enough for 12 servings
Instructions
- Toast the Baguette: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for about 5 minutes until they turn golden and slightly crisp. This creates the perfect base for your crostini.
- Prepare the Strawberries: Chop the strawberries into small pieces. If your strawberries are very ripe and juicy, place them on a paper towel for a few minutes to absorb excess moisture, preventing sogginess in the topping.
- Make the Balsamic Reduction: In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 6 to 8 minutes until it thickens into a syrupy consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the chopped strawberries with lemon zest. Pour the warm balsamic reduction over them and stir gently to coat all the pieces evenly while preserving their shape.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread a generous layer of ricotta cheese on each toasted baguette slice. Top with the balsamic-strawberry mixture. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of creamy, sweet, tart, and crunchy textures.
Notes
- You can skip the ricotta for a lighter, dairy-free option or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
- For extra flavor, garnish with fresh basil or mint leaves before serving.
- This recipe is best served fresh to maintain the texture of the baguette and strawberries.
- The balsamic reduction can be prepared in advance and stored refrigerated for up to one week.
