These tasty Prosciutto Pear Gorgonzola Crostini are the perfect blend of salty, sweet, and creamy. Crispy bread topped with juicy pears, rich gorgonzola, and savory prosciutto makes a fantastic bite!
They’re like little flavor parties on toast! I love serving them as an easy appetizer, and they disappear quickly at gatherings. Plus, they look fancy without all the fuss! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A French baguette gives a nice crunch, but you can use any crusty bread. Ciabatta or sourdough also work well. If gluten-free, look for gluten-free bread options.
Pear: A firm yet ripe pear, like Bosc or Anjou, adds sweetness. If you can’t find pears, try using thinly sliced apples for a similar texture and taste.
Prosciutto: This adds a salty, savory flavor. If you’re looking for a less expensive option, thinly sliced ham or turkey bacon can provide a different twist.
Gorgonzola: This blue cheese is key for flavor. Feel free to substitute with feta for a milder taste or goat cheese if you enjoy tanginess.
Ricotta Cheese: It adds creaminess. Cream cheese is a good alternative, adding richness, or skip it for a lighter crostini.
How Can I Toast Bread Perfectly for Crostini?
Toasting the bread right ensures it’s crispy and holds the toppings well. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Keep your oven at 375°F (190°C) for an even toast.
- Brush both sides of each bread slice with olive oil for flavor and crunch.
- Toast for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway. This ensures even browning on both sides.
- Watch closely; you want them golden brown, not burnt!
Once they cool slightly, they’ll be crispy enough to hold all those yummy toppings without getting soggy. Enjoy!
How to Make Prosciutto Pear Gorgonzola Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 French baguette or rustic Italian bread, sliced about 1/2 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Toppings:
- 1 ripe but firm pear, thinly sliced
- 4 ounces prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 4 ounces fresh ricotta cheese
- 3 ounces crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- Fresh rosemary, finely chopped (about 1 teaspoon)
- Honey, for drizzling (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Estimate:
You’ll need about 20 minutes for prep and cooking. This includes about 10 minutes to toast the bread and another 10 to assemble the delicious crostinis!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will prepare it for toasting the bread to that perfect crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Arrange the slices of baguette on a baking sheet. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides. This will help them achieve a lovely golden color and crunch when baked.
3. Toast the Bread:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast the bread for about 10 minutes. Make sure to flip the slices halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
4. Cool The Toasts:
Once the bread is crispy and golden, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly for easy handling.
5. Spread the Ricotta:
Take a generous scoop of fresh ricotta cheese and spread it evenly on each slice of the toasted bread. The creamy ricotta is the perfect base for the toppings!
6. Add the Pears:
Layer 1-2 thin slices of pear on top of the ricotta on each crostini. The pear adds a wonderful sweetness and freshness that pairs perfectly with the other flavors.
7. Top with Prosciutto:
Next, lay a slice of prosciutto over the pear slices. Fold it gently for some texture and height; this adds a delightful savory punch!
8. Sprinkle Gorgonzola:
Sprinkle crumbled Gorgonzola cheese on top of the prosciutto. This blue cheese adds a rich and tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweet pear.
9. Season and Add Herbs:
Sprinkle fresh chopped rosemary and a few cracks of black pepper over each crostini for an added aromatic touch. Rosemary pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
10. Drizzle with Honey (Optional):
If you’d like, drizzle a little honey over the top of each crostini for a hint of sweetness that complements the savory elements.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange your beautiful crostinis on a wooden board or platter, and serve them immediately. They are best enjoyed fresh while the bread is still crisp, and the flavors are vibrant!
These crostinis are a delightful combination of creamy, savory, and sweet—perfect for any gathering or as a delicious snack at home. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If Gorgonzola is not your favorite, you can substitute it with feta for a milder flavor or goat cheese for a tangy kick. Both will complement the prosciutto and pear nicely!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers. The toasted bread can be kept for up to 2 days, while the toppings should ideally be consumed within a day. Reassemble just before serving for the best texture!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare components ahead! Toast the bread and let it cool, then stack it in an airtight container. Slice the pears and prepare the cheese spreads, but wait to assemble them until right before serving to keep the bread crispy.
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Adding sliced figs, walnuts, or even a sprinkle of balsamic glaze can elevate the flavors. Mix and match according to your taste and what’s in season!