The Perfect Crostini Caprese

I’ve long been a huge fan of the flavors of caprese, whether it’s in salad form or this crostini caprese. It’s so simple with just a few ingredients, yet they work so well together to make such an incredible appetizer!

Crostini caprese is elegant, fresh, and so gorgeous on or around a charcuterie board. It’s perfect for a dinner party or a simple, delicious snack.

two crostini caprese on a wooden board with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil

Crostini Caprese takes inspiration from two beloved Italian traditions: the crunchy, toasted bread known as crostini and the timeless Caprese salad.

Caprese, originating from the island of Capri, typically features fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. I prefer to add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or assembling first and setting a small dish of the glaze beside them – but both ways are delicious. Pairing these classic flavors with crispy bread makes for a fantastic appetizer that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this crowd-pleasing recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • baguette
  • extra-virgin olive oil
  • fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese
  • Roma or cherry tomatoes (Roma work best because they’re smaller in diameter and not as juicy as other tomatoes)
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

If you know your guests have dietary restrictions, consider using a gluten-free baguette or a vegan mozzarella. For low-carb, substitute cucumber for the bread.

a closeup of a crostini caprese on a wooden board with cherry tomatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s everything you need to know about preparing this simple appetizer! The crostini can be made up to a day in advance and kept in an airtight container.

  1. Prepare the Crostini: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Toast them in the oven for about 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re lightly browned and crisp (they’ll crisp a bit more as they cool).
  2. Assemble the Caprese Layers: Once the crostini has cooled slightly, layer each slice with fresh mozzarella, a slice of tomato, and a basil leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Drizzle and Serve: Finish each crostini with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, if using. Serve immediately.
two crostini caprese on a wooden board with cherry tomatoes and two types of fresh basil

Tips

  • Choose Quality Ingredients: Like all dishes with so few (and fresh) ingredients, choose the highest quality. Summer tomatoes are best, which is why this is such a popular summer appetizer. It’s ideal if you can pick the basil just before assembling, but if not, make sure it’s as fresh as possible.
  • Make Ahead: You can toast the crostini up to a day before serving and assemble everything just before your guests arrive.
  • Homemade Balsamic Glaze: Making the balsamic glaze yourself is incredibly simple. Simmer balsamic vinegar with a teaspoon of honey or sugar until it reduces to a thick, syrupy consistency. Be careful to remove it from the heat at just the right time, as it will thicken more as it cools.
a closeup of a crostini caprese on a wooden board next to two cherry tomatoes

Serving Suggestions

Crostini Caprese pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and dishes. Here are a few ideas:

  • Wine Pairing: Serve with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a light Prosecco.
  • Charcuterie Board: When adding to a charcuterie board, you can either add a few at a time and replenish as you go, or place them on a separate plate next to the board. These are perfect as part of a grazing table!
  • Seasonal Twist: Swap out tomatoes for roasted red peppers in the cooler months for a delicious twist.

Crostini Caprese is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this recipe is easy to make, versatile, and guaranteed to be a huge hit at your next gathering.

Buon appetito!

two crostini caprese on a wooden board with cherry tomatoes and two types of fresh basil

Crostini Caprese

Yield: 8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Crostini caprese is sophisticated, flavorful, and a perfect easy appetizer for your next dinner party.

Ingredients

  • 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 2-3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced (or halved bocconcini)
  • 2-3 ripe Roma tomatoes (or halved cherry tomatoes)
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Toast them in the oven for about 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until they're lightly browned and crisp (they'll crisp a bit more as they cool).
  2. Once the crostini has cooled, layer each slice with fresh mozzarella, a slice of tomato, and a basil leaf. Season with salt and pepper
  3. Finish each crostini with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, if using. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 233Total Fat: 11gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 427mgCarbohydrates: 24gFiber: 1gSugar: 4gProtein: 10g

The nutrition information is HIGHLY estimated. For more accurate information, we suggest using an online nutrition calculator and entering the exact amounts you use for your particular board.

Did you make this recipe?

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Kristy Bernardo
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