These tasty Prosciutto Pear Gorgonzola Crostini are the perfect appetizer! With crispy bread topped with sweet pears, salty prosciutto, and creamy Gorgonzola, they’re hard to resist.
Honestly, who can say no to that combo? I love to serve them at parties, and watch everyone go for seconds—just make sure to save a few for yourself! 🧀🍐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette or Italian Bread: A crusty baguette is perfect for crostini. If you can’t find one, ciabatta or sourdough work great too! Just aim for something with a firm crust for that satisfying crunch.
Gorgonzola Cheese: Gorgonzola has a unique flavor. If you’re not a fan, try blue cheese or feta as alternatives. Both provide a nice creaminess, but with slightly different tastes.
Pears: Ripe pears are sweet and tender, but feel free to use apples if pears aren’t available. Granny Smith apples add a tart crunch, perfect for balancing flavors.
Prosciutto: Prosciutto is deliciously salty, but if you prefer not to use pork, consider turkey or chicken deli meat. Just go for something thinly sliced to maintain the right texture.
Fresh Herbs: While basil and sage are great garnishes, feel free to get creative! Thyme or arugula can also add a fresh touch if you have those on hand.
How Do I Make the Perfect Toasted Crostini?
Toasting is crucial for crostini, making them crispy and ready to hold those delicious toppings! Here’s how to get it right:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot when you put the bread in.
- Brush both sides of each bread slice with olive oil. This helps with browning and adds flavor.
- Spread the slices out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid overlapping them for even toasting.
- Toast for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through to brown both sides. Keep an eye on them; they can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
Let them cool slightly before adding toppings for best results. Enjoy your crispy bases!
Prosciutto Pear Gorgonzola Crostini
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette or crusty Italian bread, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- Olive oil, for brushing and drizzling
- 4 oz Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- 6 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves or sage leaves for garnish
- Honey or balsamic glaze for drizzling
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Estimate:
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to toast. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes to create these tasty crostini!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your crostini get nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Bread:
Next, take your sliced baguette or Italian bread and arrange the pieces on a baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil. This is key for achieving that golden color and crunch.
3. Toast the Bread:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and toast the bread slices for about 8-10 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through so both sides become beautifully crisp. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool just a bit.
4. Add Gorgonzola:
Now it’s time for the delicious cheese! Spread a generous layer of crumbled Gorgonzola cheese on each toasted slice. The creaminess of the cheese pairs perfectly with the bread.
5. Layer the Pears:
Top the cheese layer with a slice or two of fresh, thinly sliced pears. Their sweetness will balance nicely with the saltiness of the prosciutto.
6. Fold in the Prosciutto:
Take a piece of prosciutto and fold it neatly before placing it on top of the pear slices. This adds a lovely texture and flavor contrast!
7. Garnish:
To finish off your crostini, add a fresh basil or sage leaf on top for a pop of color and flavor. It’s a nice touch that elevates the dish.
8. Drizzle and Season:
For that extra touch, drizzle a bit of honey or balsamic glaze over the crostini. Then, sprinkle freshly ground black pepper to taste. This little bit of seasoning enhances all the flavors beautifully.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
These crostini are best served immediately while the bread is warm and crispy. Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful colors before you dig in! They’re perfect for impressing your guests or treating yourself!
This combination of crunchy crostini, creamy tangy Gorgonzola, sweet pear, and salty prosciutto makes for a perfect elegant appetizer. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If Gorgonzola isn’t your preference, try using blue cheese for a similar flavor, or goat cheese for a milder, creamier option. Just keep in mind that the taste profile will vary slightly.
What Type of Bread Works Best for Crostini?
A crusty baguette or Italian bread is ideal for crostini due to its firm texture, which holds up well. You can also use ciabatta or sourdough if that’s what you have on hand. Just ensure it’s sliced to about 1/2-inch thick for the best crunch!
Can I Prepare the Toppings in Advance?
Yes! You can slice the pears and crumble the cheese ahead of time. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh until you’re ready to assemble and serve the crostini.
How Should I Store Leftover Crostini?
If you have any leftovers, store the topped crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Keep in mind that the bread may lose its crispiness, so it’s best to assemble them just before serving for maximum texture.
