Falling in Love with Figs – Crostini 3 Ways
Figs have always been something that intimidated the heck out of me - I wasn’t sure how I was supposed to enjoy them, what they paired with or what I thought they should taste like. If you’re anything like me and you want to dabble in some fall flavors in a way that is easy to execute but beautiful enough to make your guests, feel like you have it all figured out – these are for you.
Crostini are rustic and rough and the most perfect and forgiving vessels for easy appetizers. Also, Crostini literally means crusty bread in Italian, and I thought that was important for you to know. All three of these combinations have unique flavor and texture profiles that range from using a beautiful and bouncy fresh fig, a soft roasted fig and a spread of sticky fig jam – paired with unique cheeses and spices, each of these small bites are truly a treat!
Mascarpone & Balsamic
Ingredients
Crostini (precut or baguette)
Mascarpone cheese
Blood orange Balsamic glaze (regular ok too)
Flakey salt
Fresh figs
Instructions
Toast your crostini in an even layer on a cookie sheet (about 10 minutes at 350, less time if you want less crunch)
While toasting, cut your figs into lengthwise quarters and set aside
For each crostini, layer a spread of mascarpone followed by 1-2 quarters of fig, drizzle with balsamic glaze and top with a sprinkle of flakey sea salt.
Arrange on a tray and serve immediately.
Goat Cheese & Roasted Fig
Ingredients
Crostini (precut or baguette)
Goat cheese
Hot honey
Chili flakes
Fresh figs
Cinnamon
Brown Sugar
Instructions
Slice your figs however you’d please, toss them in a bowl and cover with a sprinkle of brown sugar and cinnamon. Lay in a single layer on a cookie shake and roast for 20-30 minutes at 350. Let cool completely.
Toast your crostini in an even layer on a cookie sheet (about 10 minutes at 350) – remove from oven and let cool.
For each crostini, layer a spread or crumble of goat cheese followed by 2 pieces of roasted fig, drizzle with hot honey and top with a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Arrange on a tray and serve immediately.
Fig Jam & Brie
Ingredients
Crostini (precut or baguette)
Fig Jam
French fried onions
Pecans
Creamy Brie
Herb of choice (thyme)
Instructions
Toast your crostini in an even layer on a cookie sheet (about 10 minutes at 350) – remove from oven and let cool.
While the crostini toasts, chop your pecans and herbs and set aside.
For each crostini, layer a spread of fig jam, then a small wedge or spread of your creamy brie and top with chopped pecans, crispy onions and herbs.
Arrange on a tray and serve immediately.