Tomato Crostini are one of those appetizers that instantly make any gathering feel special. They’re simple to make, but they look elegant and taste amazing.
I especially love this version: tomato crostini with basil pesto, creamy ricotta, and delicate prosciutto roses. It’s a flavor-packed bite that combines fresh, savory, and creamy in one crispy mouthful.
If you’re planning a dinner party, a cozy brunch, or even just a light lunch, this is the kind of dish that adds beauty and taste to the table.
Related: Air Fryer Corn on the Cob Recipe
What I like most is how fast and easy this recipe is. You only need a few ingredients, many of which you might already have in your kitchen. It’s perfect for beginner cooks or anyone short on time.
Even though it comes together quickly, the final result looks fancy and polished. These Tomato crostini are perfect for spring gatherings, birthdays, holidays, or anytime you want a snack that feels a little extra.
Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love preparing these tomato crostini because they bring together simple, fresh ingredients to create a dish that’s both beautiful and delicious.
- Quick & easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal effort
- Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients
- Crispy & creamy: A perfect texture contrast in every bite
- Great for gatherings: Elegant enough for parties, simple enough for weeknights
- Fresh & flavorful: Basil pesto, juicy tomatoes, and salty prosciutto shine
- Customizable for dietary needs: Easy to make gluten-free or vegetarian
- Instagram-worthy: Beautiful presentation with pretty prosciutto roses
- Versatile: Works as an appetizer, snack, or light lunch
These tomato crostini are perfect. The creamy ricotta and herby pesto make a bold base, the tomatoes add brightness, and the prosciutto roses bring a salty elegance.
Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe is very flexible and can easily be adjusted for dietary needs or ingredient availability:
- Ricotta cheese: Substitute with whipped goat cheese, mascarpone, or even vegan cashew cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Basil pesto: Use store-bought pesto for convenience or make your own. For a nut-free version, leave out the pine nuts or swap with sunflower seeds.
- Baguette: You can use gluten-free baguette or thinly sliced sourdough if preferred. Toasted flatbread or crackers also work in a pinch.
- Prosciutto: For a vegetarian version, skip the prosciutto or replace it with thin slices of grilled zucchini, roasted red pepper strips, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Cherry tomatoes: Grape tomatoes or heirloom varieties add color and flavor. In winter, oven-roasted tomatoes are a great substitute.
- Olive oil: Any mild oil works well, like avocado oil or sunflower oil. For an herby twist, try garlic- or basil-infused olive oil.
This crostini recipe is forgiving and fun to customize. It’s easy to adjust to suit your guests’ needs without losing any of the flavor or charm.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Can I make crostini in advance?
Yes! Here’s how to plan ahead and keep things fresh:
- To store the toasted bread: Toast the baguette slices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them crispy and ready for assembly.
- To store assembled crostini: Once topped, the crostini are best enjoyed immediately. However, if needed, you can store them in the fridge in a single layer (not stacked) in an airtight container for up to 1 day. The bread may soften slightly.
- To reheat crostini: If your crostini have been refrigerated, place them back in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 3–5 minutes to crisp up the bread. Be careful not to overheat, or the toppings will melt.
- Freezing is not recommended for this recipe due to the creamy cheese and fresh tomato topping.
If you want to prep ahead, assemble the ingredients separately and put everything together right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These tomato crostini are delicious on their own, but here are a few ways to make them even better:
What to serve with crostini:
- As an appetizer before pasta, risotto, or grilled meats
- Alongside a fresh salad like arugula with lemon vinaigrette
- With a bowl of soup (tomato, minestrone, or vegetable work great)
- On a charcuterie board with olives, cheeses, and fruit
Topping ideas:
- Drizzle of honey: Adds a sweet touch to balance the salty prosciutto
- Fresh basil or arugula leaves: Bright and peppery garnish
- Balsamic glaze: A beautiful finish that adds depth
- Chili flakes or cracked black pepper: For a little heat
- Lemon zest: Adds freshness and contrast
Make a full tray of these crostini and serve them as part of a spread.
How to prepare Tomato Crostini with Pesto, Ricotta & Pretty Prosciutto Roses
Delicious Tomato Crostini with Pesto, Ricotta & Pretty Prosciutto Roses
An easy yet elegant tomato crostini appetizer made with crispy baguette slices, creamy ricotta, vibrant basil pesto, sweet cherry tomatoes, and delicate prosciutto roses. Perfect for any party, brunch, or romantic evening.
Ingredients
- 1 fresh baguette
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 6 slices prosciutto (cut in half to form 12 roses)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the baguette into ½-inch slices (about 12 pieces). Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
- Toast the slices in the oven for 6–7 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crisp.
- Season the halved cherry tomatoes with a little salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Spread a layer of ricotta onto each toasted baguette slice.
- Spoon a small amount of pesto over the ricotta and spread gently.
- Top with halved cherry tomatoes and arrange them evenly.
- Roll each half-slice of prosciutto into a rose shape and place one on each crostini.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an optional drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the crunchy, creamy, savory goodness!
These tomato crostini with pesto and ricotta might be one of my favorite appetizers ever. They’re simple to make but full of personality, flavor, and charm.
So whether you’re making a platter for guests or just treating yourself to something special, I hope these tomato crostini bring joy to your table. Bon appétit!
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