Grilled Cheese Crostini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Cheese Crostini is the perfect marriage of fresh, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. The Brie provides a rich, buttery base, while the balsamic-glazed strawberries offer a sweet, tangy contrast. The crusty bread adds the perfect crunch, and the fresh mint leaves a refreshing finish. It’s an easy yet impressive appetizer that brings together comforting elements of a classic grilled cheese with the elegance of fresh fruit and cheese pairings. This recipe is quick to prepare, but the flavor combination feels sophisticated and gourmet.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sliced strawberries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Pinch of sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 1 loaf crusty bread, thickly sliced
• ⅓ cup olive oil, for brushing
• 10 ounces Brie, sliced
• 4 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
• Freshly ground black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture begins to simmer. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Brush the slices of crusty bread with olive oil on both sides, then grill them for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Once the bread is toasted, layer the grilled crostini with slices of Brie cheese. Place the crostini back on the grill for about 1 minute, just until the Brie starts to melt.
5. While the crostini are grilling, toss the sliced strawberries with the balsamic glaze mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly.
6. Once the crostini are done, remove them from the grill and top each slice with the glazed strawberries.
7. Sprinkle the fresh chopped mint over the top, followed by a light sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.
8. Serve immediately as an appetizer or snack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Grilling Time: 5-6 minutes
• Total Time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

• Different Cheese: Swap out the Brie for goat cheese, ricotta, or a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans on top for a bit of crunch and extra richness.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil over the strawberries for a spicy contrast.
• Vegan Version: Use a plant-based cheese alternative and a balsamic glaze made without honey for a vegan-friendly version of this dish.
• Herb Variation: Try using basil or thyme instead of mint for a slightly different herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: These crostini are best enjoyed immediately while the bread is still crispy and the cheese is warm. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. The bread may lose its crispness after a few hours, but the flavor will still be delicious.
• Reheating: To refresh leftovers, toast the crostini in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to re-crisp the bread before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of crusty bread, such as a baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough. Just make sure the slices are thick enough to hold the toppings.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

The grilled crostini and balsamic strawberries can be prepared in advance, but it’s best to assemble them right before serving to keep the bread crispy.

3. What other fruits can I use instead of strawberries?

You can use other fruits like peaches, figs, or even apples. Just make sure the fruit is ripe and complements the flavors of the cheese and balsamic glaze.

4. Can I make this dish without grilling?

Yes, you can toast the bread in a regular oven or on a stovetop pan instead of grilling. Just make sure to get the bread nice and crispy.

5. What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Adding a bit of sugar will help mimic the sweetness of balsamic vinegar.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can try using goat cheese, camembert, or even mozzarella as a substitute for Brie.

7. Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, by swapping out the Brie for a vegan cheese and using a plant-based sweetener in the balsamic glaze, you can make this dish vegan-friendly.

8. Can I add a protein to this dish?

If you’d like to add some protein, you could top the crostini with slices of  smoked turkey for a savory addition.

9. Can I prepare the strawberries in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the balsamic-glazed strawberries ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just be sure to assemble the crostini right before serving.

10. How do I get the Brie to melt properly?

Slice the Brie thinly so it melts easily and place the crostini back on the grill for just a minute or so—don’t overheat the Brie, as it may become too runny.

Conclusion

Grilled Cheese Crostini are a perfect combination of crispy, savory, and sweet that will elevate any meal or gathering. With the rich, creamy Brie, the tangy-sweet strawberries, and a hint of fresh mint, these crostini make an elegant yet simple appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether for a dinner party, a picnic, or just a special treat for yourself, this recipe is both delicious and versatile, offering endless possibilities for customization!

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