Imagine a bite-sized culinary masterpiece that combines the creamy richness of camembert, the nutty crunch of pistachios, and the aromatic freshness of basil - all perfectly balanced on a crispy baguette slice. This Camembert Cheese Pistachio Basil Pesto Bruschetta isn't just a appetizer; it's a gourmet experience that will transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary journey. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated dinner party or craving a luxurious snack, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 1 wheel camembert cheese
- 1/2 cup pistachios, shelled
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Toast the shelled pistachios in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a food processor, combine the toasted pistachios, fresh basil leaves, peeled garlic cloves, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pulse until a smooth, consistent pesto forms.
- Slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush each baguette slice lightly with olive oil. Toast in the preheated oven for 5-6 minutes until edges are golden and crisp.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Slice the camembert cheese into thin, even pieces.
- Spread a generous layer of the pistachio basil pesto on each toasted baguette slice.
- Top each bruschetta with a slice of camembert cheese.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is just melted and slightly bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with additional chopped pistachios or fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve immediately while warm and the cheese is still soft and creamy.
Tips
- Toast pistachios carefully to enhance their flavor without burning - constant stirring is key.
- Use fresh basil leaves for the most vibrant and aromatic pesto.
- Choose a high-quality camembert for the best melting and flavor profile.
- Slice baguette diagonally for more surface area and an elegant presentation.
- Don't over-bake the bruschetta; you want the cheese just melted and edges golden.
- Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the optimal texture and taste.
- For extra elegance, garnish with fresh basil leaves or finely chopped pistachios.
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother pesto and easier mixing.
- If possible, use a food processor for the most consistent pesto texture.
- Experiment with different nuts like almonds or walnuts if pistachios aren't available.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
