Marinated Goat Cheese and Strawberry Crostini Recipe
This Marinated Goat Cheese and Strawberry Crostini is a simple yet elegant appetizer featuring creamy herb-marinated goat cheese, sweet fresh strawberries, and crisp toasted baguette slices. It’s a beautiful make-ahead recipe that’s perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a light snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings (about 16 crostini)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 8 ounces goat cheese
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves or microgreens, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine the olive oil, thyme, rosemary, basil, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to make the marinade.
- Place the goat cheese in a shallow dish and spoon the marinade over it, coating evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through, until lightly golden and crisp.
- Let the toasted bread cool slightly.
- Spread a generous layer of the marinated goat cheese onto each toasted baguette slice.
- Top with sliced fresh strawberries.
- Drizzle with honey and balsamic glaze, if desired.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves or microgreens and serve immediately.
Notes
- Marinate the goat cheese overnight for even more flavor.
- Substitute whipped ricotta or cream cheese for a milder taste.
- Try peaches, blackberries, or fresh figs instead of strawberries when in season.
- Add toasted pistachios or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Store the marinated goat cheese in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and toasted baguette slices at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Assemble the crostini just before serving to keep the bread crisp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 crostini
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
