Crostini

Crostini are small, thin slices of toasted bread, which are usually brushed with olive oil. The Italian word 'crostini' means, 'little toasts'. Crostini are typically served with a topping, which can be as simple as a basic tomato and basil mixture, or as elaborate as a rich, slow-cooked ragu.

History

Crostini originated in Italy during medieval times when it was typical for Italian peasants to eat their meals on slices of bread since they did not have individual plates. The idea of using bread as a plate led to the creation of crostini, which are now enjoyed worldwide.

Preparation

To prepare crostini, one needs to slice a baguette or any other type of artisan bread into thin slices, brush each slice with olive oil, and then toast them in the oven until they become crisp. The bread acts as a sturdy base for a variety of toppings.

Toppings

Crostini can be topped with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, meat, vegetables, and even fruit. Some popular toppings include prosciutto, mozzarella, tomato, basil, and olive tapenade. The toppings can be finely chopped and mixed together, or they can be layered on the bread.

Serving

Crostini are often served as an appetizer or as part of an antipasto platter. They can also be served alongside soup or salad to add a crunchy texture. In Italy, crostini are often served with a glass of wine.

Variations

There are many variations of crostini. For example, in Tuscany, a popular version of crostini is topped with chicken liver pate, known as Crostini Toscani. Another variation is the use of sweet toppings, such as honey and figs, which can be served as a dessert.

See also

• Bruschetta
• Canapé
• Tapas