Roasted Grape Tomato and Basil Crostini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Roasted Grape Tomato and Basil Crostini is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy, golden crostini provides the perfect base for the juicy, roasted tomatoes, while the fresh basil leaves add a pop of color and flavor. The touch of olive oil and balsamic vinegar brings a depth of richness to the dish, enhancing the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s fresh, flavorful, and sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Ingredients

• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick slices
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing the bread)
• 1 garlic clove, peeled and halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for drizzling)
• Fresh mozzarella or goat cheese (optional, for topping)

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

Directions

1. Roast the Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halved grape tomatoes on a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the tomatoes evenly. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft, slightly caramelized, and bursting with flavor. Remove from the oven and set aside.
2. Prepare the Crostini: While the tomatoes are roasting, arrange the baguette slices on a separate baking sheet. Brush each slice with olive oil on both sides and toast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside.
3. Infuse the Toast with Garlic: Once the crostini are toasted, rub the cut side of the garlic clove over the warm bread to infuse it with a subtle garlic flavor.
4. Assemble the Crostini: Top each crostini with a spoonful of roasted grape tomatoes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and drizzle with balsamic vinegar if desired. For added richness, you can also top the crostini with fresh mozzarella or goat cheese.
5. Serve: Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 crostini (depending on the size of the baguette and slices)
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20-30 minutes
• Total time: 30-40 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Try different cheeses such as ricotta, burrata, or feta for a unique twist. The creamy textures of these cheeses pair wonderfully with the roasted tomatoes.
• Add a Protein: For a more substantial appetizer, add slices of prosciutto or grilled chicken on top of the crostini.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomatoes before roasting for a touch of heat.
• Vegan Version: Skip the cheese and drizzle with extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a dairy-free, vegan version of the crostini.
• Herb Variations: If you don’t have basil, feel free to use fresh oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Roasted grape tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the crostini are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store the roasted tomatoes separately and toast the bread again before assembling.
• Freezing: The roasted tomatoes can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Reheating: Reheat the tomatoes in the microwave or in a warm oven, and toast the bread before assembling the crostini again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes, you can use any type of small, sweet tomato, such as cherry tomatoes or heirloom varieties. However, grape tomatoes are the best option for this recipe because of their sweetness and compact size.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the roasted tomatoes and crostini ahead of time. Simply store the roasted tomatoes and toasted bread separately in airtight containers. When ready to serve, assemble the crostini and add the fresh basil.

Can I make these crostini without an oven?

Yes, you can make the crostini on a stovetop or grill. Just heat a grill pan or regular pan over medium heat and toast the bread slices on both sides until golden brown and crispy.

Can I add any other toppings?

Absolutely! You can add a variety of toppings such as olives, pine nuts, or a drizzle of pesto for added flavor. The versatility of this dish makes it easy to customize to your taste.

How can I make this a more substantial dish?

You can transform this appetizer into a light meal by serving it with a side salad, or by adding grilled vegetables or a protein like chicken or shrimp.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free baguette slices to make this dish gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Roasted Grape Tomato and Basil Crostini is an easy, flavorful, and elegant appetizer that brings together simple ingredients for a satisfying bite. The roasted tomatoes are sweet and caramelized, while the fresh basil adds a burst of herbal freshness. The crispy crostini provides the perfect base, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual snack, or serving it as part of a meal, this crostini will undoubtedly impress your guests and leave everyone asking for more!

Roasted Grape Tomato and Basil Crostini

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Roasted Grape Tomato and Basil Crostini is a simple yet elegant appetizer that combines roasted grape tomatoes, fresh basil, and crispy toasted bread for a flavorful and vibrant dish.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-30 minutes
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 crostini
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. Salt and pepper, to taste
4. 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick slices
5. 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing the bread)
6. 1 garlic clove, peeled and halved
7. 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
8. 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for drizzling)
9. Fresh mozzarella or goat cheese (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place halved grape tomatoes on a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and roast for 20-25 minutes until soft and caramelized. Remove and set aside.

1. While the tomatoes roast, arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. Rub the cut side of the garlic clove over the warm crostini to infuse it with garlic flavor.
3. Top each crostini with a spoonful of roasted tomatoes, sprinkle with chopped basil, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar if desired. Optionally, top with fresh mozzarella or goat cheese.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.

Notes

1. Try different cheeses like ricotta, burrata, or feta for a unique twist.
2. Add prosciutto or grilled chicken on top for a more substantial appetizer.
3. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomatoes before roasting.
4. For a vegan version, skip the cheese and add extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 crostini
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 5mg