Pineapple Crostini With Honey And Cream Cheese Recipe
Description:
Pineapple Crostini with Honey and Cream Cheese is an effortlessly elegant Italian appetizer that brings together the delightful crunch of toasted ciabatta with the creamy richness of cream cheese and the tropical sweetness of pineapple. This versatile dish can be customized with any seasonal fruit, making it not only delicious but also a refreshing way to enjoy fruit. The addition of honey adds a natural sweetness that complements the savory toast, while a touch of extra virgin olive oil brings a silky texture to the crostini. Whether you’re preparing for a party or looking for a light snack, this dish is a perfect choice to delight your guests and elevate any occasion.
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ciabatta bread | 1 loaf, cut into small slices |
| Pineapple | 5 roundels |
| Britannia Cream Cheese | 200 grams |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 2 sprigs (for garnish) |
Allergen Information:
- Contains Dairy: This recipe contains cream cheese, so it is not suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. You can use dairy-free cream cheese as an alternative.
- Gluten Warning: Ciabatta bread is made with wheat flour, making this recipe unsuitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Honey: This recipe uses honey as a natural sweetener, so it is not suitable for vegans. Agave nectar or maple syrup can be used as an alternative for a vegan version.
- Coriander: Some individuals may have allergies to coriander. If you’re uncertain, you can omit it or substitute it with another herb.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian-Friendly: The Pineapple Crostini with Honey and Cream Cheese is vegetarian, making it suitable for those following a vegetarian diet.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the ciabatta bread with a gluten-free bread of your choice.
- Vegan-Friendly Alternative: Replace the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey to create a fully vegan version.
Preparation and Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and allow it to heat up for about 10 minutes. This ensures that your crostini will toast evenly and become golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Place the sliced ciabatta bread on a greased baking sheet. Drizzle the slices with extra virgin olive oil, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. The olive oil will not only enhance the flavor but also help the bread achieve a crisp texture when toasted.
Step 3: Toast the Bread
Pop the baking sheet with the prepared bread into the oven and toast for 7-8 minutes or until the slices turn golden brown on both sides. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. The goal is to achieve a crunchy, crispy base that will hold up well when topped with the creamy cheese.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread
While the bread is toasting, take the Britannia Cream Cheese and place it in a mixing bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of honey to the cream cheese and use a hand mixer or whisk to blend the ingredients together until smooth. The honey will sweeten the cream cheese and create a creamy, luscious spread.
Step 5: Assemble the Crostini
Once the bread slices have been toasted to perfection, spread the cream cheese and honey mixture generously over the top of each slice. Then, layer a round slice of pineapple on top of the cream cheese, ensuring that each crostini gets a sweet and tangy burst of pineapple.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For the final touch, sprinkle some fresh coriander (dhania) leaves over the crostini as a garnish. The fresh herbs add a fragrant, slightly citrusy note that balances out the sweetness of the honey and pineapple. If desired, drizzle a little extra honey over the top for a touch more sweetness.
Serve these delightful Pineapple Crostini with Honey and Cream Cheese immediately, perhaps alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate or a refreshing glass of white wine for a perfect appetizer at your next gathering.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Sugars | 10 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Cholesterol | 10 mg |
Conclusion:
Pineapple Crostini with Honey and Cream Cheese is a delightful appetizer that combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors with a satisfying crunch. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also provides a fun way to enjoy fresh fruit in a savory context. With the versatility to use different seasonal fruits and the ability to accommodate dietary preferences, this dish makes for an excellent choice when hosting parties, gatherings, or simply when you want to enjoy a light, flavorful snack. Whether you opt for the original pineapple topping or try another fruit, this crostini is sure to become a crowd-pleasing favorite.
