Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini
Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini is a delightful appetizer that tantalizes your taste buds with its harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors. Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers, this elegant dish combines creamy brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and salty prosciutto atop crispy crostini for a bite-sized treat that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Key Takeaways:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Main ingredients: French baguette, Brie cheese, cranberry sauce, prosciutto, fresh rosemary
- Special techniques: Toasting crostini, layering flavors
- Storage information: Best served fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for a short period.
Introduction to Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini:
Crostini, meaning “little toasts” in Italian, have a rich history that dates back to the 15th century. Traditionally made from leftover bread, crostini were created as a way to use up stale bread while showcasing the flavors of various toppings. This Italian-inspired appetizer has evolved over the years and is now a staple in many cultures, often served at festive occasions and gatherings.
The combination of cranberry, brie, and prosciutto is particularly popular during the holiday season, where the tartness of cranberries complements the creamy texture of brie, while the prosciutto offers a savory contrast. This recipe embraces both the old-world charm of crostini and the modern palate’s desire for bold and balanced flavors, making it a significant addition to any appetizer spread.
In the culinary world, the marriage of sweet and savory flavors is held in high esteem, and this crostini exemplifies that balance beautifully. As a versatile dish, it can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a snack, or even a light lunch. The appeal of this dish lies not only in its flavor profile but also in its stunning presentation, making it a favorite choice for entertaining.
Ingredients for Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini:
- French baguette: The base of the crostini, providing a crispy and chewy texture.
- Brie cheese: Adds a rich, creamy layer that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
- Cranberry sauce: Provides sweetness and acidity, balancing the flavors of the dish.
- Prosciutto: Offers a salty, savory element that enhances the overall taste.
- Fresh rosemary: Adds an aromatic freshness that elevates the flavors.
- Olive oil: Used for brushing the baguette slices before toasting, enhancing flavor and crispiness.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, ensuring all flavors are well-balanced.
Preparation Steps for Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini:
1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Baguette: Slice the French baguette into approximately ½-inch thick slices. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet.
3. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush each slice of bread with olive oil on both sides to ensure they crisp up nicely in the oven.
4. Toast the Crostini: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and toast the slices for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
5. Layer the Ingredients: Once toasted, remove the crostini from the oven. Begin layering by placing a generous slice of Brie cheese on each crostini, allowing it to melt slightly from the heat of the bread.
6. Add Cranberry Sauce: Spoon a dollop of cranberry sauce over the Brie on each crostini.
7. Top with Prosciutto: Gently place a piece of prosciutto over the cranberry sauce. You can fold or tear the prosciutto to fit as needed.
8. Garnish: For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle fresh rosemary leaves on top of each crostini. Optionally, add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the taste.
9. Final Toast: Return the assembled crostini to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, just to warm everything through and allow the flavors to meld.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and then serve immediately while still warm.
Flavor Profile of Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini:
The flavor profile of Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini is a delightful symphony of tastes and textures. The first bite reveals the crunchiness of the toasted baguette, giving way to the creamy, buttery richness of the Brie cheese that melts beautifully into the crostini. The cranberry sauce introduces a burst of tart sweetness that balances the richness of the cheese, making each bite refreshing and lively.
The prosciutto adds a savory depth that perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the cranberries. Its delicate, salty flavor enhances the entire experience without overpowering the other ingredients. Meanwhile, the fresh rosemary provides an aromatic pop that ties all the flavors together beautifully. This combination creates a well-rounded dish that is both satisfying and sophisticated.
Benefits of Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini:
Cranberries are known for their high antioxidant content and health benefits, including promoting urinary tract health and providing anti-inflammatory properties. They are also a good source of vitamins C and E, which support the immune system and skin health.
Brie cheese, while rich and creamy, contains calcium and protein, contributing to bone health and muscle repair. Prosciutto, although higher in salt, offers protein and certain vitamins such as B6 and B12. When combined, these ingredients provide a balanced appetizer that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
Additionally, the dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. For instance, gluten-free bread can be used for those with gluten sensitivities, and plant-based cheeses can replace Brie for a vegan option. This adaptability makes the crostini a great choice for entertaining guests with diverse dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini:
Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini can be served as an appetizer at holiday parties, weddings, or casual gatherings. To elevate the presentation, arrange the crostini on a beautiful serving platter and garnish with extra rosemary sprigs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added depth.
Pair these delightful bites with a selection of wines. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors of the cheese and cranberry beautifully, while a light red wine, like Pinot Noir, balances the richness of the prosciutto. For non-alcoholic options, consider serving sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a light herbal iced tea.
These crostini are also excellent additions to a charcuterie board, where they can join other cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and nuts, creating a visually stunning and delicious spread.
Storage Tips for Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini:
While Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini are best enjoyed fresh, leftover ingredients can be stored for later use. If you have leftover crostini, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that they may lose their crispness.
To preserve the toppings, store the cranberry sauce and prosciutto separately in the refrigerator. The cranberry sauce can last for up to a week, while prosciutto can stay fresh for about 3-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reassemble the crostini on freshly toasted bread to bring back the delightful texture and flavor.
If you anticipate having leftovers after a gathering, consider preparing only the crostini base ahead of time and topping them just before serving to ensure maximum freshness and taste.
Conclusion:
Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini is more than just an appetizer; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings joy to any occasion. With its exquisite balance of sweet, savory, and creamy elements, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is easy to prepare and delivers gourmet quality with minimal effort. Give it a try, and your taste buds will thank you!
FAQ Section:
1. Can I make the crostini ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the crostini base in advance and store them in an airtight container. Top with Brie, cranberry, and prosciutto just before serving for the best texture.
2. What can I substitute for prosciutto?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use other cured meats like pancetta, or for a vegetarian option, try using roasted vegetables or marinated artichokes.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, traditional baguettes contain gluten. However, you can find gluten-free baguettes at specialty grocery stores, or use gluten-free crackers as an alternative.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Brie is delicious in this recipe, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like Camembert or goat cheese for different flavor profiles.
5. How do I store leftover crostini?
Store leftover crostini in an airtight container at room temperature for up to
Full Recipe
Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini Ingredients: - 1 French baguette - 1/4 cup olive oil - 1 package quality Prosciutto - 1 round of Brie cheese - 1 jar McEwans Cranberry Sauce - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted (optional) - 1 cup McEwans Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar - 2 tablespoons brown sugar Directions: 1. Make the Balsamic Glaze: In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine 1 cup of McEwans Balsamic Vinegar and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Heat over low and simmer, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool. It will thicken more as it cools. 2. Prepare the Crostini: Slice the French baguette into 1/3 inch slices on a bias. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil. Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 8 minutes, or until they are lightly toasted. 3. Assemble the Crostini: Cut the Brie cheese into thin strips. Place a slice of Brie on each toasted baguette piece. Top with a slice of Prosciutto and a generous teaspoon of McEwans Cranberry Sauce. 4. Add the Finishing Touches: If using, sprinkle the toasted chopped walnuts over the crostini. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top. For an added touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or arugula. Your delightful Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini is ready to impress! Enjoy this gourmet appetizer at your next gathering!