Name: Balsamic Blueberry Goat Cheese Crostini
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 baguette, sliced: The base of your crostini should be a crusty baguette to provide a crispy, crunchy texture that contrasts with the creamy goat cheese.; 4 oz goat cheese, softened: Choose a high-quality, fresh goat cheese (chèvre) for a tangy, creamy spread that complements the sweetness of the blueberries.; 1 cup fresh blueberries: Opt for plump, ripe blueberries to add a burst of natural sweetness and a fresh, fruity flavor.; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: Use a good-quality balsamic vinegar for its rich, tangy flavor that will be the base of the glaze.; 2 tbsp honey: Honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar in the glaze.; Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Basil provides a herbaceous note and a pop of color that enhances the overall presentation and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1 baguette, sliced: The base of your crostini should be a crusty baguette to provide a crispy, crunchy texture that contrasts with the creamy goat cheese.
4 oz goat cheese, softened: Choose a high-quality, fresh goat cheese (chèvre) for a tangy, creamy spread that complements the sweetness of the blueberries.
1 cup fresh blueberries: Opt for plump, ripe blueberries to add a burst of natural sweetness and a fresh, fruity flavor.
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: Use a good-quality balsamic vinegar for its rich, tangy flavor that will be the base of the glaze.
2 tbsp honey: Honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar in the glaze.
Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Basil provides a herbaceous note and a pop of color that enhances the overall presentation and flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crostinis

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange the sliced baguette pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Toast the baguette slices for 10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Pro tip: For extra flavor, you can brush the bread slices with olive oil before toasting.

Step 2: Make the Balsamic Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons honey.
Simmer the mixture over medium heat until it reduces by half and thickens to a syrup-like consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Stir occasionally to ensure the glaze doesn’t burn. Once thickened, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Pro tip: The glaze will thicken as it cools, so don’t over-reduce it.

Step 3: Assemble the Crostinis

Spread a generous layer of softened goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice.
Top each piece with a handful of fresh blueberries. Be sure to distribute the blueberries evenly to ensure each bite has the perfect balance of flavors.
Drizzle the prepared balsamic glaze over the blueberries and goat cheese.

Pro tip: For a smoother texture, you can whip the goat cheese with a bit of heavy cream before spreading.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Finish by garnishing each crostini with fresh basil leaves. This adds a burst of color and a subtle herbaceous flavor that enhances the dish.
Serve immediately and enjoy!