These prosciutto pear gorgonzola crostini are a tasty treat! With crunchy bread, salty prosciutto, sweet pears, and creamy gorgonzola, every bite is a fun adventure for your taste buds!
Making these is so simple! Just top your toasted bread with the goodies, and you’ve got a snack that looks fancy but is quick to prepare. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying all by yourself! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A fresh baguette gives the best crunch! If you can’t find one, any crusty bread will do. Sourdough or ciabatta are great alternatives.
Olive Oil: Brushing the bread with olive oil helps it toast nicely. You could swap it with melted butter for a richer flavor.
Pear: Ripe pears are sweet and juicy. If they’re out of season, try apples for a similar crisp texture or even figs for a unique twist.
Gorgonzola: If gorgonzola isn’t your favorite, any blue cheese works well. You can also use goat cheese for a creamier taste.
Prosciutto: Look for thin slices of prosciutto for easy layering. Pancetta can be used instead if you’re looking for something a little different.
How Do You Get the Perfect Toast on Your Crostini?
Toasting the bread right is key! Start with medium heat in the oven for even cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet without overlapping.
- Brush both sides with olive oil for a golden finish.
- Toast for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure both sides crisp up nicely.
- Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning!
This step makes sure your crostini are crunchy and sturdy enough to hold the toppings. Enjoy your delicious bites!
How to Make Prosciutto Pear Gorgonzola Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- Olive oil, for brushing
- 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
- 4 oz Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 6-8 slices prosciutto
- Fresh sage leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Honey, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes toasting the bread and preparing the toppings, making it a quick and easy treat to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baguette:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take your baguette slices and arrange them on a baking sheet. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides. This helps them get nice and crispy. Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast the slices for about 8-10 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through so both sides get golden and crunchy!
2. Prepare the Toppings:
While the baguette slices are toasting, slice your ripe pear thinly and crumble the Gorgonzola cheese into a bowl. If you’d like to use sage for a garnish, take a few fresh leaves and lightly fry them in a bit of olive oil until they’re crisp. Take them out and let them drain on some paper towels.
3. Assemble the Crostini:
Once your crostini are golden and crispy, it’s time to build them! Start by placing a few thin slices of pear on each toasted slice of bread. Then, sprinkle or press some crumbled Gorgonzola cheese over the pear slices. The creamy cheese will melt just a touch against the warm bread.
4. Add the Prosciutto:
Next, take a piece of prosciutto and either lay it flat or fold it neatly over the cheese layer. The salty flavor of the prosciutto pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pear.
5. Finish with Garnishes:
If you’re using fried sage, place a crispy leaf on top of each crostini for a pop of flavor. For an extra special touch, drizzle a little bit of honey over each one. It adds a delightful sweetness that complements all the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your crostini are best served warm and fresh right out of the oven! Arrange them on a serving platter and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures. These bites will surely wow your guests!
Can I Use Different Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While a baguette is traditional, you can substitute it with any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough. Just make sure it can hold the toppings without becoming soggy!
What If I Don’t Like Gorgonzola Cheese?
No problem! If you’re not a fan of gorgonzola, you can use another blue cheese, goat cheese, or even feta for a different flavor profile. Each will bring its own unique taste to the crostini!
How Should I Store Leftover Crostini?
These crostini are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the toppings separately from the toasted bread to maintain crunch. Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, and the toppings in the fridge for 1-2 days.
Can I Prepare These Crostini Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can pre-slice the baguette and prepare the toppings in advance. Just assemble the crostini shortly before serving to keep the bread crispy and fresh!
