Description
Balsamic Strawberries are a delightful and elegant appetizer featuring fresh strawberries combined with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction, lemon zest, and brown sugar. Served atop toasted baguette slices with a creamy ricotta spread, these crostini offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ideal for entertaining or a sophisticated snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Strawberries
- ½ cup strawberries, chopped
Balsamic Reduction
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
Additional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 5 tablespoons ricotta cheese (optional, for serving with crostini)
- Baguette slices (quantity to yield 12 crostini slices)
Instructions
- Toast the Baguette: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
- Prepare the Strawberries: Chop the strawberries into small pieces. If the strawberries are very ripe and juicy, place them on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
- Make the Balsamic Reduction: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Stir occasionally and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until the mixture thickens and reduces to a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the lemon zest to the chopped strawberries. Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the strawberries and stir gently to coat all pieces evenly.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread ricotta cheese evenly on each toasted baguette slice. Top each with a generous spoonful of the balsamic strawberries mixture. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm strawberries for the best texture and flavor.
- The ricotta cheese is optional but adds a lovely creamy contrast to the tangy strawberries.
- You can prepare the balsamic reduction in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the ricotta or substitute with a plant-based spread.
- Serve these crostini as a sophisticated appetizer or a light dessert.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
