30-Minute Tomato Goat Cheese Crostini
Crispy toasted baguette slices topped with creamy goat cheese and fresh cherry tomato basil mixture, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for entertaining, summer gatherings, or elegant appetizers. The combination of tangy goat cheese, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic basil creates a classic Italian-inspired bite that's both sophisticated and approachable.
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch thick diagonal slices
- 4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, 12 oz, quartered
- 2 Tbsp basil, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced or squeezed with garlic press
- ⅛ tsp fine sea salt
- ⅛ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 4 oz goat cheese, Boursin cheese or cream cheese
- 2 Tbsp balsamic glaze, to drizzle, homemade or storebought
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F with rack in center position
- 2
Slice baguette into diagonal slices using serrated knife
- 3
Arrange slices on rimmed baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil
- 4
Bake until edges are slightly golden, then cool to room temperature
- 5
Combine tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in mixing bowl
- 6
Spread goat cheese over cooled toasts
- 7
Top with tomato mixture and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving
Tips
Cool toasts completely before adding toppings to prevent cheese from melting and toppings from sliding off.
Make tomato mixture while bread bakes to maximize efficiency and allow flavors to meld.
Use a serrated knife for clean diagonal cuts that showcase the bread's texture.
Good to Know
Assembled crostini best served immediately. Store components separately in refrigerator up to 2 days.
Toast bread and prepare tomato mixture up to 4 hours ahead. Assemble just before serving.
Serve immediately at room temperature for best texture contrast.
Common Mistakes
Cool toasts completely to avoid melting cheese and sliding toppings.
Don't overdress tomato mixture to prevent soggy bread.
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time?
Toast bread and prep tomato mixture separately up to 4 hours ahead, but assemble just before serving to maintain crispness.
What if I don't have balsamic glaze?
Reduce regular balsamic vinegar in a small pan until syrupy, or drizzle with good quality olive oil instead.
Can I freeze the assembled crostini?
Not recommended as bread becomes soggy when thawed. Freeze sliced bread only, then toast when ready to use.