Parmesan Crostini
Crispy Parmesan Crostini are savory, cheese-topped toasted bread slices, perfect as an appetizer or snack for cheese lovers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat it with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place bread slices on the baking sheet and brush each slice lightly with olive oil.
- Spread each slice with about 1 teaspoon Parmesan cheese and sprinkle with black pepper.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is just melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using a different cheese like Gruyère or Asiago instead of Parmesan. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. To ensure even cooking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through. If you want a bit of a kick, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Parmesan crostini are perfect as an appetizer or snack, and they pair beautifully with soups or salads. Serve them alongside a refreshing Basil-Tomato Pie or as part of an Italian-themed platter with olives, cured meats, and marinated vegetables. They also make a delightful accompaniment to a glass of white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crostini in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it will make them chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Crostini contains roughly 270 calories, with 12g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 25g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make crostini ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread slices with olive oil and cheese in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just pop them in the oven to reheat and crisp up. This is a great option for entertaining.
What can I use instead of French bread?
If you don't have French bread, consider using Italian bread or even a baguette. You can also try whole grain or gluten-free bread for a healthier option. Just adjust the baking time as needed based on the thickness of the bread.
How do I prevent the crostini from becoming soggy?
To keep crostini crisp, make sure to toast them until they are golden brown before adding cheese. Also, avoid adding too much olive oil, as excess moisture can lead to sogginess. Serve them immediately after baking for the best texture.
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).