Description
A delightful and elegant appetizer featuring roasted balsamic strawberries on crispy crostini, topped with luscious mascarpone whipped cream and crunchy pistachios. This recipe combines sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors with a satisfying texture contrast, perfect for entertaining or a sophisticated snack.
Ingredients
Strawberries and Roasting
- 3 cups strawberries, halved (quarter large berries)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
Crostini
- 1 baguette, cut into 1/2 inch slices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Mascarpone Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
- 4 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
Garnish
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready for roasting the strawberries and baking the crostini.
- Roast the Strawberries: In a large bowl, toss the strawberries with 1 tablespoon olive oil and the balsamic vinegar. Spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 10 minutes, then stir gently with a rubber spatula. Continue roasting for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the strawberries are softened and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Crostini: Brush both sides of the baguette slices with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes or until golden. Flip the slices over and bake for an additional 5 minutes to toast both sides evenly. Transfer the crostini to a cooling rack.
- Make Mascarpone Whipped Cream: Using a hand mixer with a whisk attachment, combine the chilled heavy cream, room temperature mascarpone cheese, and confectioners’ sugar. Whip the mixture until stiff peaks form, indicating a thick, creamy texture. Set aside.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of roasted strawberries onto each crostini slice. Top with 2 tablespoons of the mascarpone whipped cream, then sprinkle with chopped pistachios for a crunchy finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp crostini and creamy, fruity topping at their best.
Notes
- Roasting the strawberries intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a subtle tang from the balsamic vinegar.
- Ensure heavy cream is well chilled for easy whipping and better volume.
- Use fresh baguette for the best crostini texture—stale bread will not crisp up properly.
- This recipe is best served immediately after assembly to maintain the crostini’s crunch.
- To make ahead, you can roast strawberries and prepare mascarpone whipped cream separately; assemble just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
