Name: Crostini with Creamy Cheese and Walnuts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Ingredients: 1 whole whole-wheat baguette; 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese or neufchatel cream cheese; 2 to 3 leaves basil leaves or mint leaves; 1 1/2 tablespoons walnuts, crushed; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Crostini with Creamy Cheese and Walnuts is a delightful appetizer that brings together the crunch of toasted bread and the rich, creamy texture of a savory cheese spread. It’s perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a light snack. The combination of whole-wheat baguette, ricotta, and cream cheese creates a delectable base, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Let’s explore how to make this delicious treat with a few simple ingredients.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Crostini with Creamy Cheese and Walnuts is not just a dish; it’s an experience! The crispy texture of the toasted baguette contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese mixture, creating a satisfying bite. The addition of fresh herbs elevates the flavor profile, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings. It’s versatile, too; you can serve it as an appetizer at a dinner party or a light snack while lounging at home. The best part? It comes together in just a few minutes, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your company and less time in the kitchen.

Ingredient Breakdown

To create this delicious crostini, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 whole-wheat baguette – This will be the base of our crostini, providing a hearty, nutty flavor.
1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese – Creamy and light, ricotta adds a wonderful texture.
1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese or neufchatel cream cheese – This enhances the creaminess while keeping the calories in check.
2 to 3 basil leaves or mint leaves – Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor; choose according to your preference.
1 1/2 tablespoons walnuts, crushed – These give a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Just enough to bring out the flavors.
1/8 teaspoon pepper – Adds a subtle hint of heat.

Recommended Tools

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Oven – For toasting the baguette to perfection.
Baking sheet – To hold the baguette slices while they toast.
Mixing bowl – For combining the creamy cheese ingredients.
Spatula – To spread the cheese mixture evenly on the crostini.
Knife – For slicing the baguette and chopping herbs.

From Start to Finish: Crostini with Creamy Cheese and Walnuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your baguette slices will toast evenly and become perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Baguette

Slice the whole-wheat baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not crowded for even toasting.

Step 3: Toast the Baguette

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and toast the baguette slices for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture

While the baguette is toasting, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, crushed walnuts, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined. Chop the fresh basil or mint leaves finely and fold them into the cheese mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Crostini

Once the baguette slices are toasted and slightly cooled, it’s time to assemble. Spread a generous amount of the creamy cheese mixture onto each slice.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

For an extra touch, sprinkle some crushed walnuts and additional herb leaves on top of the assembled crostini. Serve immediately and watch them disappear!

Quick Replacement Ideas

If you find yourself missing an ingredient or two, don’t fret! Here are some quick alternatives:

Use goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangy flavor.
Substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese to lighten the recipe.
Try hazelnuts or almonds in place of walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Fresh parsley can replace basil or mint for a milder herb taste.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

As with any recipe, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your crostini turn out perfectly:

Burnt Baguette: Always keep an eye on the baguette while toasting. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the oven temperature.
Too Much Cream Cheese: If your mixture becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or yogurt to loosen it up.
Soggy Crostini: Ensure the baguette slices are fully cooled before adding the cheese mixture to prevent sogginess.

Storage Pro Tips

If you have leftovers or want to prepare in advance, here are some storage tips:

Store the cheese mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The toasted baguette can be stored in a zip-top bag at room temperature for 1-2 days. However, it’s best to assemble crostini just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the bread.

Try These Next

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like:

Pecan Stuffed Baked Apples for a sweet treat.
Caprese Salad Skewers for a fresh and vibrant appetizer.
Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil for a classic Italian flavor.
Stuffed Mushroom Caps for a hearty bite-sized option.

Let’s Eat

Crostini with Creamy Cheese and Walnuts is a simple yet impressive dish that can easily become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking to indulge in something delicious, this recipe will not disappoint. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. So gather your ingredients, fire up that oven, and get ready to enjoy a plate of crostini that is sure to impress your family and friends!

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