Introduction
Add a touch of elegance to your holiday gatherings with these Beet and Burrata Crostini. Each crispy baguette slice is layered with tender beets, creamy burrata, and topped with a honey pistachio drizzle for a sweet, nutty finish. Garnished with fresh basil, this vibrant appetizer is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Quick to prepare yet incredibly impressive, these crostini are sure to be the highlight of your festive spread.
Ingredients
1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick slices
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup cooked beets, sliced
8 ounces burrata cheese
1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
2 tablespoons honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Crostini
Toast the Baguette:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Flip halfway through for even toasting.
Step 2: Make the Honey Pistachio Drizzle
Combine Ingredients:
In a small mixing bowl, stir together the chopped pistachios, honey, and a pinch of salt.
Mix until the pistachios are evenly coated with the honey.
Step 3: Assemble the Crostini
Layer Ingredients:
Take a toasted baguette slice and place a slice of beet on top.
Add a generous scoop of burrata cheese over the beet slice.
Drizzle the honey pistachio mixture over the burrata.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Add the Finishing Touches:
Garnish each crostini with a fresh basil leaf or a sprinkle of chopped basil.
Add a light pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve Immediately:
Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and serve while the baguette is still crisp.
Cooking Notes
Beets Preparation: Use pre-cooked beets for convenience, or roast your own by wrapping whole beets in foil and baking at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes. Let cool before slicing.
Baguette Substitute: Swap baguette slices with gluten-free bread or crackers for a gluten-free option.
Nut Allergy Alternative: Replace pistachios with sunflower seeds or toasted sesame seeds if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Holiday Appetizer: These crostini are perfect for holiday parties, adding a festive touch to your table.
Pair with Wine: Serve with a crisp white wine or sparkling rosé for a complementary pairing.
Light Lunch: Pair with a simple green salad for a quick and elegant meal.
Tips
Crispier Crostini: For extra crispiness, broil the baguette slices for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Room-Temperature Cheese: Let the burrata sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before assembling to enhance its creamy texture.
Prep Ahead: Toast the baguette slices and prepare the honey pistachio mixture ahead of time. Assemble just before serving for the best results.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
12 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 110
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
These Holiday Beet and Burrata Crostini are the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and sweet with a touch of earthiness from the beets. Easy to prepare yet packed with flavor and elegance, they are an excellent choice for festive celebrations or intimate gatherings. Bring a burst of color and sophistication to your holiday table with this delightful appetizer!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crostini
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through for even toasting.
Step 2: Make the Honey Pistachio Drizzle
In a small mixing bowl, stir together the chopped pistachios, honey, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the pistachios are evenly coated with the honey.
Step 3: Assemble the Crostini
Take a toasted baguette slice and place a slice of beet on top. Add a generous scoop of burrata cheese over the beet slice. Drizzle the honey pistachio mixture over the burrata.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Garnish each crostini with a fresh basil leaf or a sprinkle of chopped basil. Add a light pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper for an extra burst of flavor. Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and serve while the baguette is still crisp.
Notes
Beets Preparation
Use pre-cooked beets for convenience, or roast your own by wrapping whole beets in foil and baking at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes. Let cool before slicing.
Baguette Substitute
Swap baguette slices with gluten-free bread or crackers for a gluten-free option.
Nut Allergy Alternative
Replace pistachios with sunflower seeds or toasted sesame seeds if needed.
Serving Suggestions
These crostini are perfect for holiday parties, adding a festive touch to your table. Serve with a crisp white wine or sparkling rosé for a complementary pairing. Pair with a simple green salad for a quick and elegant meal.
Tips
For extra crispiness, broil the baguette slices for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. Let the burrata sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before assembling to enhance its creamy texture. Toast the baguette slices and prepare the honey pistachio mixture ahead of time. Assemble just before serving for the best results.
Cook Techniques
Toasting the Baguette
Preheat your oven and arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush them with olive oil to achieve a golden and crispy finish.
Making the Honey Pistachio Drizzle
Combine chopped pistachios, honey, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Stir until the pistachios are evenly coated for a flavorful drizzle.
Assembling the Crostini
Layer a slice of beet on each toasted baguette, followed by a scoop of burrata cheese. Drizzle with the honey pistachio mixture for added flavor.
Garnishing
Finish off each crostini with fresh basil leaves and a light sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste.
Serving Immediately
Arrange the crostini on a platter and serve while they are still crisp for the best taste and texture.
FAQ
Can I use raw beets instead of cooked?
While you can use raw beets, it is recommended to use pre-cooked beets for convenience, or roast your own for a softer texture.
What is a good substitute for baguette?
You can use gluten-free bread or crackers as a suitable alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this dish nut-free?
If you need a nut-free option, replace pistachios with sunflower seeds or toasted sesame seeds.
What wine pairs well with this appetizer?
A crisp white wine or sparkling rosé works beautifully as a pairing with these crostini.
Can I prepare these crostini in advance?
Yes, you can toast the baguette slices and prepare the honey pistachio mixture ahead of time while assembling just before serving for the freshest flavor.
Conclusion
These Holiday Beet and Burrata Crostini are the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and sweet with a touch of earthiness from the beets. Easy to prepare yet packed with flavor and elegance, they are an excellent choice for festive celebrations or intimate gatherings. Bring a burst of color and sophistication to your holiday table with this delightful appetizer!
Beet and Goat Cheese Crostini
Try swapping burrata for creamy goat cheese and adding a sprinkle of thyme for an aromatic twist on this festive appetizer.
Fig and Prosciutto Crostini
Combine sliced figs with prosciutto and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory contrast that also brings a holiday flair.
Avocado and Tomato Caprese Crostini
Layer ripe avocado, fresh mozzarella, and juicy cherry tomatoes, drizzled with basil pesto for a fresh and vibrant alternative.
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Crostini
Spread cream cheese on toasted baguette slices and top with smoked salmon, capers, and fresh dill for an elegant seafood addition.
Spicy Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Crostini
Blend roasted red peppers with feta cheese and a hint of chili for a smoky, spicy topping that packs a flavorful punch.