Get ready to transform your appetizer game with this mouthwatering Broccolini White Bean Crostini that combines the rustic charm of Italian cuisine with a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors! Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick and impressive snack, these crostini are about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen. Imagine crispy, golden baguette slices topped with creamy white beans and perfectly sautéed broccolini that will have your guests begging for the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 12 crostini
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Arrange the bread slices on the prepared baking sheet and lightly brush each slice with olive oil.
- Toast the bread slices in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn golden and crisp. Remove and set aside to cool.
- Trim the tough ends of the broccolini and cut into bite-sized pieces, approximately 2 inches long.
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add broccolini to the skillet, season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccolini is tender-crisp and bright green.
- In a separate bowl, mash the white beans slightly with a fork, leaving some beans whole for texture. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the mashed white beans evenly on each toasted crostini.
- Top each crostini with the sautéed broccolini pieces.
- Optional: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the top of each crostini.
- Serve immediately while the crostini are still warm and crisp.
Tips
- Bread Selection: Choose a high-quality baguette with a crisp crust for the best texture. Day-old bread works wonderfully for crostini.
- Olive Oil Trick: Brush the bread slices lightly with olive oil to ensure even browning and extra flavor when toasting.
- Broccolini Cooking Tip: Don't overcook the broccolini - you want it tender-crisp and bright green. The key is to cook it quickly over medium heat.
- Bean Texture: When mashing the white beans, leave some whole for an interesting texture and visual appeal.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve these crostini immediately after preparing to maintain the crisp bread and warm toppings.
- Cheese Enhancement: If using Parmesan, freshly grated cheese will provide the most flavor compared to pre-grated options.
- Make-Ahead Hack: You can prepare the toasted bread and sautéed broccolini in advance, then assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
