White Bean Crostini Appetizers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This appetizer is incredibly satisfying, thanks to the smooth, creamy texture of white beans combined with aromatic garlic and herbs. It’s a budget-friendly and protein-rich option that’s easy to make and ideal for vegetarians. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a potluck dish, or need a light snack, White Bean Crostini is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s also easily customizable with toppings like lemon zest, sun-dried tomatoes, or microgreens.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Canned white beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans)
• Baguette or crusty bread
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh rosemary or thyme
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper
• Optional toppings: red pepper flakes, lemon zest, chopped parsley, shaved Parmesan

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick rounds and place on a baking sheet.
3. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil and bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crisp.
4. Meanwhile, drain and rinse the white beans.
5. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté minced garlic and chopped rosemary or thyme for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Add the white beans to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until warmed through.
7. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Add a drizzle of olive oil for creaminess.
8. Spoon the mashed bean mixture onto each toasted bread slice.
9. Garnish with desired toppings like lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or Parmesan. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12–16 crostini, depending on the size of your bread. It takes about 25 minutes total: 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for toasting and cooking.

Variations

• Add cheese: Top with crumbled goat cheese or a shaving of Parmesan.
• Use different herbs: Swap rosemary for sage, basil, or oregano.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of chili flakes or a spoonful of harissa to the bean mixture.
• Brighten it up: Mix in a bit of lemon zest or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra punch.
• Protein boost: Add a slice of prosciutto or smoked salmon on top for a more filling bite.

Storage/Reheating

Store the mashed white bean mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toasted bread should be stored separately in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat the bean mixture gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling. Assemble just before serving to keep the bread crisp.

FAQs

Can I use dry beans instead of canned?

Yes, just cook the beans ahead of time until soft. You’ll need about 1½ cups of cooked beans to replace one can.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, the base recipe is vegan. Just skip any cheese toppings or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I make the white bean mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely. The bean spread can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What type of bread works best?

A crusty baguette or sourdough loaf works best for holding the topping without getting soggy.

Can I use a food processor instead of mashing by hand?

Yes, if you prefer a smoother texture, pulse the bean mixture in a food processor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread or crackers.

What kind of white beans should I use?

Cannellini, great northern, or navy beans all work well for this recipe.

Can I serve this warm or cold?

Both work. The bean mixture can be served at room temperature or warm, depending on your preference.

What herbs pair well with white beans?

Rosemary, thyme, parsley, sage, and basil all complement white beans beautifully.

How do I keep the crostini from getting soggy?

Toast the bread well and assemble the crostini just before serving.

Conclusion

White Bean Crostini Appetizers offer a creamy, flavorful, and nutritious alternative to traditional starters. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, this dish brings together simple pantry ingredients in a way that feels special and satisfying. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a quick bite, these crostini are sure to impress.

White Bean Crostini Appetizers

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White Bean Crostini Appetizers are creamy, herb-infused bites served on crispy toasted bread. Featuring mashed white beans with garlic, olive oil, and lemon, these Italian-inspired starters are perfect for entertaining or snacking.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 pieces
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Toasting
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
• 1 baguette or crusty bread (or gluten-free alternative)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for brushing)
• 2 garlic cloves (1 minced, 1 whole for rubbing)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: red pepper flakes, lemon zest, chopped parsley, shaved Parmesan

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick rounds and place on a baking sheet.
3. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil and bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crisp.
4. Drain and rinse the white beans.
5. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic and chopped rosemary or thyme for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Add the white beans and cook for a few minutes until warmed through.
7. Transfer to a bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add a drizzle of olive oil for creaminess.
8. Rub each toasted bread slice with the whole garlic clove.
9. Spoon the mashed bean mixture onto the crostini.
10. Top with optional garnishes such as red pepper flakes, lemon zest, parsley, or Parmesan. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Make the bean mixture ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Toast bread well to avoid sogginess when assembling.
• Customize with different herbs or toppings like sun-dried tomatoes or prosciutto.
• For a smoother spread, blend beans in a food processor.
• Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 crostini piece
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 4.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg