Grilled Nectarine Goat Cheese Crostini with Balsamic Glaze

These elegant appetizer crostini showcase the perfect balance of sweet grilled nectarines, creamy goat cheese, and tangy balsamic reduction on crispy French bread. The brief grilling caramelizes the fruit's natural sugars while adding subtle smoky notes. Fresh basil provides an aromatic finish that complements both the cheese and stone fruit. Ideal for summer entertaining, wine tastings, or as a sophisticated starter for dinner parties. The contrast of textures and flavors makes these crostini memorable - crisp bread, silky cheese, tender fruit, and glossy balsamic syrup create layers of taste and visual appeal.
Ingredients
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 slices French bread baguette, 1/4 inch thick
- 2 medium nectarines, halvedpeaches1:1seasonal
same stone fruit family
- ¼ cup fresh goat cheese, softened
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, loosely packed
Instructions
- 1
Bring balsamic vinegar to a boil in small saucepan
- 2
Cook 10-15 minutes until liquid reduces to 3 tablespoons
- 3
Remove from heat
- 4
Brush olive oil over both sides of baguette slices
- 5
Grill bread slices uncovered over medium heat until golden brown on both sides
- 6
Grill nectarine halves 45-60 seconds on each side until tender and lightly browned
- 7
Cool nectarines slightly
- 8
Spread goat cheese over toasts
- 9
Cut nectarines into thick slices
- 10
Arrange nectarine slices over cheese
- 11
Drizzle with balsamic syrup
- 12
Sprinkle with basil
- 13
Serve immediately
Tips
Choose ripe but firm nectarines that won't fall apart on the grill
Make balsamic reduction ahead of time as it keeps well and saves prep time
Toast bread on grill just before serving to maintain crispness
Good to Know
assemble just before serving
balsamic reduction can be made 1 day ahead
immediately after assembly
Common Mistakes
grill nectarines briefly to avoid mushy texture
reduce balsamic slowly to prevent burning
assemble just before serving to prevent soggy bread
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make the balsamic reduction ahead of time?
Yes, the balsamic reduction can be made up to one day ahead and stored covered at room temperature. Reheat gently if it becomes too thick.
What if I don't have a grill?
Use a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat, or broil the bread and nectarines in the oven for similar results.
Can I substitute other stone fruits?
Absolutely. Peaches, plums, or apricots work wonderfully and should be grilled for the same amount of time until tender and lightly caramelized.