Crostini is a versatile Italian dish made with toasted bread that can be used as a snack or appetizer. Toppings can include olive oil, sauces, cheese, meat, and vegetables, and can be presented on skewers. The possibilities for crostini toppings are endless.
Crostini is an Italian dish made with fried or toasted bread. Ideal to use as a snack or as an appetizer, crostini are similar to bruschetta, although the crostini slices are usually thinner. Crostini is a versatile dish that lends itself well to different topping options. Here are some examples of tasty crostini toppings that are sure to be a hit as a family snack or as appetizers at a party.
One of the simplest types of crostini dressing uses nothing but a high-quality olive oil. While crostini are normally made by brushing a thin layer of olive oil on the surface of the bread before toasting or frying, the oil can also be enriched with a few simple herbs to make a great topping for crusty bread. You can add some dried rosemary, chopped basil, or even some freshly ground pepper to give the olive oil an extra kick.
For people who want something a little more substantial, there’s always the option of making a sauce to pour over the crouton sections. The range of sauces includes tomato-based types that are very similar to a spaghetti sauce or a cheese sauce made from any desired type of cheese. Additions such as finely chopped bell peppers can be added to the sauce for more body and texture.
Another approach to crostini toppings includes using slices of cherry tomatoes and a combination of herbs and one or more grated cheeses. Once you’ve cut the cherry tomatoes in half, place the sections on the croutons, sprinkle them with the herbs of your choice, and then top with a light sprinkling of grated cheese. The cheese can be grated coarsely or finely, depending on your preference. When allowed to melt slightly, the cheese helps tie together the flavors of the tomatoes, bread and herbs into a unified taste.
Others may prefer crostini toppings that include the presence of one or more types of meat. Slices of sausage, cooked cooked sausage, crumbled ground beef, or even chicken or turkey meat can be used just as easily. Simply cook the meat or meats, then apply in a more or less even layer to the surface of the croutons. Adding cheese to the top will provide an effect that’s a lot like making a plain bread pizza.
Vegetables can also be added as a filling or topping for croutons. In addition to tomato slices, you can also cut thin sections of eggplant, onions, garlic, mushrooms or peppers and use them as toppings. Be sure to lightly grill the vegetables before placing them on the croutons, then crisp the finished dish under a broiler for a few moments before serving.
While crouton toppings are often applied to an entire slice of toast, it’s also possible to cut the bread into even cubes. Cubes can be alternated on a skewer with cubes of cheese, small pieces of meat and even slices of chopped vegetables. The stuffed skewer can be drizzled with a little olive oil and herbs, then placed under a broiler to fry all the ingredients. The end result creates a nice presentation as well as being a balanced option for a snack.
The possibilities for toppings and crostini fillings are never-ending. All it takes is a little imagination and a willingness to try something different. Experiment with different combinations of crostini toppings and see what appeals to your palate.
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