Pesto Crostini with Prosciutto

This hearty tomato crostini with pesto, ricotta, and prosciutto roses brings a touch of romance to any table. The combination of crispy bread topped with creamy cheese, aromatic pesto, juicy tomatoes, and delicate meat roses creates an appetizer that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen.

I first made these for a spontaneous date night at home when reservations fell through. What started as a backup plan became our Valentine's Day tradition that we look forward to each year.

Ingredients

• Fresh baguette slices choosing a quality artisan loaf provides the perfect crispy foundation
• Ricotta cheese use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture and richest flavor
• Basil pesto freshly made offers the brightest flavor but store bought works in a pinch
• Cherry tomatoes select firm ripe tomatoes for the perfect juicy sweetness
• Prosciutto look for thinly sliced Italian prosciutto di Parma for the most delicate roses
• Olive oil splurge on a good quality extra virgin for drizzling
• Salt and pepper freshly ground enhances all the flavors
• Fresh basil leaves choose bright green aromatic leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 400°F and arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush each slice generously with olive oil on both sides. Toast them until they develop a golden crust around the edges while maintaining a slightly soft center about 5 to 7 minutes. Watch carefully as they can burn quickly.

Create the Creamy Base

Once the bread has cooled slightly so it remains crisp but won't melt the cheese immediately spread a thick layer of ricotta on each slice. Use the back of a spoon to create a slight divot in the center which will help hold the other toppings. The ricotta should be at room temperature for easier spreading.

Layer the Pesto

Spoon a small amount of vibrant basil pesto over each ricotta covered slice. Use just enough to cover the surface without overwhelming the other flavors. The oils from the pesto will begin to mingle with the creamy ricotta creating a beautiful flavor marriage.

Add Tomato Freshness

Place halved cherry tomatoes cut side up on each crostini pressing them gently into the cheese mixture. Season with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked pepper which enhances their natural sweetness and creates a perfect counterpoint to the rich base.

Create Prosciutto Roses

For each rose take a slice of prosciutto and fold it in half lengthwise. Then roll it gently starting from one end creating a rose effect. Place each delicate rose on top of a prepared crostini where it becomes both a garnish and a flavor component adding a sophisticated saltiness.

Garnish and Serve

Finish each crostini with a small fresh basil leaf tucked alongside the prosciutto rose. Arrange them on a wooden serving board and drizzle lightly with additional olive oil just before serving. The fresh herbs and quality oil provide a final aromatic touch that elevates the entire appetizer.

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The first time I served these at a dinner party guests kept returning to the appetizer table long after the main course was served. The prosciutto roses always get compliments and I love watching people try to figure out how something so beautiful could also taste so amazing.

Make Ahead Options

While these crostini are best enjoyed fresh you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline assembly. Toast the bread slices up to 8 hours before serving and store them in an airtight container at room temperature once completely cooled. The pesto can be made or purchased several days in advance and kept refrigerated. For the fastest assembly have all ingredients prepped and ready to go then put everything together just before guests arrive.

The toasted bread maintains its texture for several hours but will eventually soften if topped too far in advance with the moist ingredients. If you need to prepare these slightly ahead consider applying only the ricotta and pesto base then adding the tomatoes and prosciutto roses right before serving.

Perfect Pairings

These tomato crostini shine alongside a chilled glass of Prosecco or light white wine which complements the fresh flavors without overpowering them. For a non alcoholic option a sparkling water with a splash of elderflower cordial provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors.

Consider serving these as part of a larger Valentine's Day spread alongside olives chocolate covered strawberries and a simple cheese plate. The bright colors and flavors of the crostini balance heavier dishes and provide a beautiful visual element to your table. These appetizers also pair beautifully with a light soup for a more substantial first course.

Crafting Perfect Prosciutto Roses

Creating delicate prosciutto roses might seem complicated but the technique is surprisingly simple. Select prosciutto sliced very thinly almost translucent for the most elegant results. If the slices are sticking together let them warm slightly at room temperature which makes them easier to separate without tearing.

For the most beautiful roses fold each slice in half lengthwise to create a longer narrow strip. Starting at one short end roll the prosciutto loosely allowing the edges to ruffle naturally as you go. The center should be slightly tighter with the outer edges creating a blooming effect. Practice makes perfect and even imperfect roses look charming on top of the colorful crostini.

Pro Tips

Allow ricotta to come to room temperature for 15 minutes before spreading for the creamiest texture and easiest application

Toast bread until golden but not too dark as it will continue to harden slightly as it cools ensuring the perfect crunch

Assemble crostini just before serving for the ideal texture contrast between crisp bread and juicy toppings

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Commonly Asked Questions

→ How do I make prosciutto roses for the crostini?

To create prosciutto roses, take a slice of prosciutto and fold it in half lengthwise. Then roll it up loosely from one end to create a rose-like shape. The natural folds of the prosciutto will give it a petal-like appearance. Handle gently to maintain the delicate structure when placing on top of the crostini.

→ Can I make these crostini ahead of time?

You can prepare components ahead of time, but it's best to assemble just before serving. Toast the bread and store in an airtight container for up to a day. The pesto and ricotta mixture can be prepared earlier and refrigerated. Assemble the crostini no more than 30 minutes before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

→ What's the best bread to use for crostini?

A fresh baguette works best for crostini due to its crusty exterior and soft interior. French or Italian baguettes are ideal, but sourdough or ciabatta can also work well. The key is using bread that will hold the toppings while maintaining a satisfying crunch after toasting.

→ Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?

Yes, goat cheese makes an excellent substitute for ricotta in this dish, offering a tangier flavor profile. Cream cheese can also work well, providing a smoother, richer base. For a lighter option, consider whipped feta or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cheese spread for those with dietary restrictions.

→ How do I keep cherry tomatoes from making the crostini soggy?

After halving the cherry tomatoes, you can place them cut-side down on paper towels for a few minutes to absorb excess moisture. Alternatively, you can lightly salt the tomatoes about 10 minutes before assembly, which draws out moisture. Be sure to blot them before placing on the crostini.

→ What wine pairs well with these crostini?

These flavorful crostini pair beautifully with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which complement the fresh flavors without overwhelming them. For red wine lovers, a light-bodied Pinot Noir works well with the prosciutto. Sparkling wines like Prosecco or Champagne also make excellent pairings, especially for Valentine's Day celebrations.