Microgreen Salad Crostini: A Fresh Summer Appetizer
This vegetarian starter combines the crisp texture of toasted baguette with the vibrant freshness of microgreens and tangy goat cheese, creating a perfect balance that's both sophisticated and approachable. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a nutritious snack, this Fresh Microgreen Salad Crostini delivers impressive flavor with minimal effort.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
For the crostini base:
- 1 French baguette sliced into ½-inch rounds (approximately 24 slices)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove peeled and halved (for rubbing bread)
- salt and black pepper to taste
For the microgreen topping:
- 2 cups fresh microgreens try a mix of sunflower, pea shoots, radish, or broccoli microgreens
- 8 oz goat cheese softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 1 lemon zest
- red pepper flakes optional, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bake for 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp but still slightly tender in the center. For extra flavor, immediately rub each warm toast with the cut side of the garlic clove.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened goat cheese with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and honey. Whip with a fork until smooth and fluffy, similar to the texture of softened butter.
- In a separate bowl, gently toss the microgreens with the remaining tablespoon of lemon juice and a light drizzle of olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Spread a generous layer of the goat cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
- Top with a small mound of the dressed microgreens, distributing them evenly.
- Sprinkle the assembled crostini with toasted pine nuts, lemon zest, and a light dusting of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve immediately as a delightful appetizer.
Notes
For best results, prepare the components separately up to a day ahead and assemble just before serving to prevent the crostini from becoming soggy.
Microgreens can be easily grown at home in a shallow container with potting soil. Harvest when the first true leaves appear (typically 7-14 days).
Light, crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the fresh flavors perfectly.
Nutrition
Calories: 175kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 6gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 210mgFiber: 1.5gSugar: 2g
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