Crustini
Crustini with savory ground beef, anchovies, and rich tomato sauce on toasted bread make a flavorful appetizer perfect for entertaining or a quick snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef until all meat is lightly browned.
- Add tomato sauce and black pepper to the ground beef.
- Let cook for 10 minutes.
- In a frying pan, put a little olive oil and add anchovies.
- Mash anchovies with a fork as they soften, until they are all mashed.
- Add the anchovy mixture to the ground beef and tomato sauce.
- Let cook for 10 minutes, slowly, until the tomato sauce gets the taste of anchovies.
- Toast slices of French or narrow Italian bread.
- Spread the tomato and anchovy mixture on the toasted bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions while cooking the ground beef. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. Anchovies can be replaced with capers for a different flavor profile. This dish can also be enhanced with herbs like oregano or basil, which are common in Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crustinis as a delightful appetizer for gatherings or as a casual snack. They pair nicely with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving with a side of garlic bread or a bowl of creamy soup. They also complement well with red wine or an Italian beer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. You can also microwave it, but cover it loosely to allow steam to escape and stir halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crustini contains roughly 315 calories, with 21g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. At about 315 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomato sauce?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes; just ensure to peel and chop them before adding. You may need to simmer them longer to achieve a sauce-like consistency, but it will add a fresh flavor to your crustinis.
What type of bread is best for crustinis?
French or narrow Italian bread works best for crustinis due to their sturdy structure, which can hold the toppings well. You can also experiment with ciabatta or sourdough for a different texture and flavor.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tomato and anchovy mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and simply reheat it before serving. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining or quick weeknight meals.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).