When you need a gourmet appetizer that is simple to prepare, Goat Cheese Crostini will never let you down. This simple recipe pairs tangy goat cheese with a crispy baguette and tops it off with a sweet orange peach salsa. The result is a delightful bite that is perfect for any gathering.
What marries the rustic charm of artisan bread with the creamy delight of fresh dairy, all while promising to steal the show at your next family gathering or cozy dinner for two? Drumroll, please…Goat Cheese Crostini!
This isn't just an appetizer; it's a conversation starter, a palette pleaser, and, dare I say, a tiny slice of heaven.
Ingredients
- Mandarin Oranges: These little gems bring a burst of sweet, citrusy flavor to our salsa. If mandarins are out of season or not available, feel free to use 2 small oranges.
- Peaches: They add a juicy, sweet note that balances the tanginess of the citrus. If peaches are not available, nectarines are an excellent substitute, offering a similar texture and sweetness.
- Diced Red Bell Pepper: This adds a crunchy texture and a pop of color. If red bell pepper isn't your thing or you just don't have it on hand, try using yellow or orange bell peppers for a similar crunch without altering the salsa's vibrant appearance too much.
- Diced Red Onion: A bit of red onion gives our salsa a slight zing and depth. Green onions can be a great substitute, still providing that bite but in a more subdued manner.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Lime juice brings everything together with its bright acidity, enhancing the flavors of all the other ingredients. No lime? No problem! Lemon juice works just as well, offering a similar zesty kick.
- Chopped Fresh Chives: Chives add a hint of oniony flavor without overwhelming the salsa. If chives are hard to come by, a small amount of finely chopped green onion tops can serve as a stand-in, contributing a similar mild, onion-like flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: These seasonings are key to bringing out the natural flavors in our salsa. Adjust these according to your taste preference.
- Goat Cheese: The creamy texture and tangy taste of goat cheese pair wonderfully with the crispness of the baguette and the freshness of the salsa. If goat cheese isn't your favorite, feta cheese can be a good alternative.
- Milk: A little milk helps to soften the goat cheese for easier spreading.
- Baguette, Sliced: The crunchy base for our toppings. If you're gluten free, use a gluten free baguette.
Tips and Tricks
- The Bread is the Base: Choosing the right bread can make all the difference. I personally adore using a French baguette for that perfect crunch, but don't hesitate to experiment with different types of bread like ciabatta or sourdough. The key is to find something that holds up well under the toppings without getting soggy.
- Seasonal Salsa Swaps: While our recipe calls for mandarin oranges and peaches, feel free to get creative with the seasons. In the fall, why not try a pear and apple salsa? Or in summer, a zesty tomato and basil topping could be utterly divine. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility.
- Creamy Goat Cheese Wonders: For those who might not be fans of goat cheese, worry not! There are plenty of creamy alternatives that can easily take its place. Ricotta, cream cheese, or even a vegan cashew cheese spread can offer that delightful creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Customize Your Crostini: I love adding a personal touch to my recipes, and I encourage you to do the same! A sprinkle of crushed walnuts or a drizzle of honey over the goat cheese before adding the salsa can add an unexpected twist that'll have your guests asking for your secret.
- Bake to Perfection: Keep a close eye on your crostini while they’re in the oven, especially during the second bake after adding the goat cheese. You want them golden and crispy, not overly browned. It’s the difference between a good crostini and a great one!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these beauties fresh out of the oven for the best experience. However, if you're prepping ahead, you can toast the bread earlier in the day and then assemble just before your guests arrive. Just a few minutes in the oven to warm them up, and you’re good to go!
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved by letting them top their own crostini. It's a fun way to introduce them to new flavors and textures, plus it makes for a great family bonding activity in the kitchen.
You May Also Like
- Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese: Dive into a vibrant bowl of color and flavor with this recipe, where earthy beets meet creamy goat cheese, creating a symphony in your mouth – it's like a hug for your soul on a plate!
- Fried Goat Cheese Salad: Imagine biting into a crispy, golden exterior to find a meltingly soft heart of goat cheese inside – this salad turns that dream into reality, making every forkful an indulgent delight.
- Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad: This recipe is a love letter to summer, combining juicy strawberries and tangy goat cheese for a refreshing dish that sings of sunny days and picnics in the park.
- Kale Pomegranate Salad: Join me on a crunchy, nutrient-packed journey with kale and pomegranate seeds that pop with flavor and antioxidants – it's a feel-good, taste-great masterpiece that's sure to become a family favorite.
Goat Cheese Crostini with Orange Peach Salsa
Ingredients
- 3 Mandarin oranges peeled and diced (or 2 small oranges)
- 2 peaches peeled, pitted and diced
- 2 tablespoons diced red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons diced red onion
- 1/1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 4 ounces goat cheese at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons milk
- For Serving
- 1 gluten free French Baquette, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- In a medium bowl, combine oranges, peaches, red pepper, red onion, lime juice and chives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together goat cheese and milk.
- Arrange bread slices in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and spread goat cheese on each bread slice. Return to oven and bake another 5 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, top rounds with salsa and serve immediately.
Elizabeth Shaw
What a beautiful recipe! I love the flavors you have going on in here- sounds delish!
Sonali- The Foodie Physician
What a beautiful pairing with that lovely wine! So elegant, pretty and surely delicious!
Jessica @ Nutritioulicious
Oh how delicious Wendy! This just speaks spring to me!
Kalee @ The Crowded Table
These look gorgeous! I think they would be perfect for a date night at home! 🙂