Strawberry-Goat Cheese Crostini

Strawberry-Goat Cheese Crostini is an easy, vibrant, sweet and savory appetizer that is perfect for a brunch, a snack or really anytime.

This easy appetizer checks every box. It has a bright, vibrant color. It’s super easy to make. It’s sweet, savory and tangy and loaded with flavor. The mint adds the finishing touch bringing this delicious Strawberry-Goat Cheese Crostini together. It looks as good as it tastes, well actually it tastes even better!

What I love about this recipe is that you can make it any time of the year. Strawberries can be found at the grocery stores all year long so make this appetizer for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, a Bridal Shower or really any time you need a simple, pretty appetizer that is sure to please all your guests!

What ingredients do I need for this Strawberry-Goat Cheese Crostini?

• Baguette: French baguette is the base of this appetizer. Baguettes are perfect because they can be cut into bite-sized pieces. However, other crusty breads can be used, just cut it up into smaller bite-sized pieces.
• Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add sweetness and color.
• Goat Cheese: Adds a tangy, creamy, tart, earthy flavor. Goat cheese and strawberries pair well with each other.
• Sugar: Brings out the natural juices and makes the strawberries sweeter and glossy.
• Fresh squeezed lime juice: Adds a nice, tart, acidic flavor that balances out the sweetness of the strawberries. Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze: Made mostly from balsamic vinegar and sugar, it is thickened until it reaches a syrup-like consistency, making it perfect for drizzling over foods.
• Fresh Mint: Adds a blast of fresh, clean, cool, refreshing flavor.

What’s the difference between crostini and bruschetta?

Crostini is the Italian word for “little toasts.” Crostini are small, thin, slices of bread, brushed with olive oil then lightly toasted. Bruschetta on the other hand, comes from the Italian word “brucare” which means “to roast over coals.” Bruschetta is sliced bread, that is charred to some degree by grilling or broiling, rubbed with garlic and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Subtle differences in my opinion, so whatever you decide to call them, both are certainly delicious.

Strawberry-Goat Cheese Crostini-Ingredients

• 1 cup strawberries (diced)
• 2 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp lime juice (fresh squeezed)
• 1 small baguette (cut into 12, 1/2 inch slices)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 4 oz goat cheese (room temperature)
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves (julienned)
• balsamic glaze (to drizzle)

Instructions

• Cut baguette into 12, 1/2 inch slices. Brush one side with extra virgin olive oil and place slices onto a baking sheet.
• Broil for about 3-4 minutes until lightly toasted. Flip and repeat. Allow bread to cool enough to handle.
• Spread goat cheese on the top of the crostini.
• Top with about 1 1/2 tbsp of strawberries.
• Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top.
• Sprinkle on mint leaves.
• Serve and enjoy!

For other bite sized appetizers try:

Cranberry Brie Bites

Easy Loaded Potato Rounds

Easy Tuna Tartare in Wonton Bowls

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Simple Crockpot Kielbasa Bites

Veri Veri Teriyaki Crockpot Meatballs