These crostini with white bean spread are a tasty treat that anyone can enjoy! The creamy white bean mix is packed with flavor and sits perfectly on crispy toasted bread.
Honestly, they disappear as fast as I can make them! I love serving them as a snack or at parties. Plus, they are super simple and make me look like a chef! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette or Italian Bread: A crusty baguette is ideal for crostini. If you can’t find one, any crusty bread will do—like ciabatta or sourdough. They all add a nice crunch!
White Beans: Cannellini or Great Northern beans are great choices. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can also use chickpeas. They’ll give a different flavor but still delicious!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute with canola or avocado oil, but the taste won’t be as rich.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use garlic powder—about 1/4 teaspoon should do it.
Lemon Juice: Fresh is always best! If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work but it might not have the same brightness.
How Do I Get the Perfect Toast on My Bread?
Toasting the bread is a crucial step for great texture! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you start.
- Arrange the bread slices with a bit of space in between so they toast evenly.
- Brush lightly with olive oil on both sides to help achieve that crunchy texture.
- Keep an eye on them as they toast, checking around 8 minutes. You want them golden, not burnt!
Let them cool a bit before adding the spread. This way, they’ll stay nice and crisp and won’t get soggy!
Crostini With White Bean Spread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette or crusty Italian bread, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- Olive oil, for brushing bread
For the White Bean Spread:
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes for toasting the bread. So in total, you’ll need about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your bread toasts evenly and becomes nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Slice your baguette or bread into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Place the slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush both sides with olive oil. This helps to give them that golden, crunchy texture. Toast in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
3. Make the White Bean Spread:
In a food processor, combine the drained white beans, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the garlic clove, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If it seems too thick, don’t worry! Add a teaspoon or two of water or a little extra olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Give the white bean spread a taste! You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or lemon juice based on your preference. If you enjoy some heat, mix in the red pepper flakes.
5. Assemble the Crostini:
Spread a generous layer of the white bean mixture onto each toasted slice of bread. Don’t be shy—make them nice and creamy!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped parsley and a few more red pepper flakes on top of each crostini for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an added zing when guests want to squeeze some over their crostini.
Enjoy this creamy, flavorful white bean spread on crispy toasted bread—perfect for any occasion as a delightful appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Beans for the Spread?
Absolutely! While cannellini or Great Northern beans are traditional, you can also use chickpeas for a twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different!
How Should I Store Leftover White Bean Spread?
Store any leftover white bean spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It may thicken a bit, so you can add a little olive oil or water when you reheat or use it again to loosen it up.
Can I Make the White Bean Spread Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the white bean spread a day in advance! Just keep it covered in the fridge. The flavors will actually develop even more, making it even tastier! Just give it a stir before serving.
What Can I Serve with These Crostini?
These crostini pair well with a variety of toppings! Consider adding sliced tomatoes, olives, or cured meats for additional flavors. They also make a great base for cheese or can be part of a charcuterie board.
