These Prosciutto Pear Gorgonzola Crostini are a yummy treat! Crispy bread topped with sweet pears, salty prosciutto, and creamy gorgonzola makes for a perfect appetizer.
Who knew that sweet and salty could play so well together? Every bite is a little party! I love serving these at gatherings—guests can’t resist going back for seconds! 🎉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A classic French bread works great for crostini. You could use sourdough or ciabatta instead for a different texture and flavor.
Pears: Ripe pears are sweet and juicy. However, if pears aren’t in season, try apples for a crunchier bite or even figs for a sweeter twist.
Prosciutto: This salty ham is key for flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using a soft cheese like brie or some roasted vegetables instead.
Gorgonzola: This cheese gives a strong flavor. If it’s too bold for your taste, you can swap it for feta or a milder blue cheese.
Honey: Drizzling honey adds sweetness. Maple syrup is a nice alternative if you want a different flavor profile!
How Do I Toast Bread Perfectly for Crostini?
Toasting bread correctly is essential for great texture in crostini. You want it crunchy on the outside but still able to hold toppings without getting soggy.
- Arrange sliced baguette on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Brush each slice with olive oil for flavor and golden color.
- Toast at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Turn the baking sheet halfway through for even toasting on all sides.
- Once golden and crisp, let them cool slightly before adding your toppings.
This simple process ensures your base is perfectly crunchy, ready to hold those delicious toppings! Enjoy making these crostini!
How to Make Prosciutto Pear Gorgonzola Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Toppings:
- 1-2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- 6-8 ounces prosciutto slices
- 4 ounces goat cheese or cream cheese, softened (optional base layer)
- 4 ounces gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Honey, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fantastic recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes for cooking, making the total time around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick appetizer that impresses!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will prepare it for toasting the bread just right!
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Take the sliced baguette pieces and arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil, making sure to coat them evenly for that perfect crispness.
3. Toasting the Bread:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and toast the bread for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they turn golden brown but don’t burn!
4. Add the Creamy Base:
Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven. If you choose to use goat cheese or cream cheese, spread a thin layer evenly over each slice while they are still warm. This will help the cheese melt slightly when baked.
5. Layer the Pear and Prosciutto:
Next, place a thin slice of pear on top of the cheese on each crostini. Then, fold a piece of prosciutto and place it right on top of the pear. Get creative with the folding to make your presentation pretty!
6. Sprinkle the Gorgonzola:
Now it’s time to sprinkle some crumbled gorgonzola cheese on top of the prosciutto. This is where the strong flavor really comes into play!
7. Bake Again:
Return the crostini to the oven and bake them for an additional 3-5 minutes. You want the gorgonzola to warm and soften but not fully melt away.
8. Drizzle with Honey:
After removing the crostini from the oven, drizzle a small amount of honey over each piece. This adds a touch of sweetness that complements the salty prosciutto and tangy cheese.
9. Garnish with Rosemary:
Finally, garnish each crostini with a small sprig of fresh rosemary. It looks nice and adds a lovely aroma!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Prosciutto Pear Gorgonzola Crostini is ready to serve! Enjoy them warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer that will wow your guests!
These crostini are not only incredibly easy to prepare, but they also pack a ton of flavor in every bite. Sweet, salty, creamy—what’s not to love? Perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If gorgonzola is too strong for your taste, you can substitute it with feta or a milder blue cheese. Goat cheese or cream cheese can also be great alternatives if you prefer a creamier texture.
How to Store Leftover Crostini?
To store leftovers, keep any uneaten crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They can lose their crispness, so it’s best to consume them as soon as possible. If you want to re-crisp them, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes.
What Should I Pair with These Crostini?
These crostini pair wonderfully with a light salad, a glass of white wine, or even a refreshing sparkling drink. They make a lovely addition to a cheese platter or charcuterie board as well!
Can I Assemble These Crostini Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the toasted baguette and assemble the toppings without baking them in advance. Store the assembled crostini in the fridge and bake just before serving to keep them fresh and warm!
