Crostini with strawberries, basil and cinnamon

12 servings

40 minutes

Crostini with strawberries, basil, and cinnamon is a delightful combination of crispy baguette, creamy ricotta, and sweet strawberries enhanced by the warm aroma of cinnamon and balsamic vinegar. This Italian delicacy evokes sunny evenings in Tuscan vineyards where fresh ingredients transform into true gastronomic masterpieces. The dish's flavor is a balance of sweetness and light acidity with spicy notes adding depth. Such crostini are perfect for festive buffets, romantic dinners, or simply cozy tea times. They can be served as a standalone dish or as an accompaniment to light white wines. The refined simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible yet exquisite, giving each bite a taste of Italian dolce vita.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 879.1
• Proteins: 24.3g
• Fats: 15.6g
• Carbohydrates: 159.8g

Ingredients

• Strawberry: 230 g
• French baguette: 12 pc
• Ricotta cheese: 170 g
• Basil: 2 tbsp
• Ground cinnamon: 2 g
• Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp
• Balsamic vinegar: 60 ml
• Sugar: 2 tbsp
• Salt flakes: to taste

Cooking steps

1. Put the strawberries in a bowl and mix with 1 tablespoon of sugar; you can add more depending on the sweetness of the berries. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to soften the berries and release their juice.

   Required ingredients:

   • Strawberry: 230 g
   • Sugar: 2 tablespoons

2. Meanwhile, heat the balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by about half and thickens slightly. Set aside. In a small bowl, mix the butter with the remaining 1 tbsp of sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.

   Required ingredients:

   • Balsamic vinegar: 60 ml
   • Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons
   • Sugar: 2 tablespoons
   • Ground cinnamon: 2 g

3. Preheat the oven to high temperature. Arrange baguette slices on a large rimmed baking sheet and toast one side until browned at the edges, about 1 minute. Flip the slices and spread them with butter mixed with cinnamon and sugar. Return to the oven and cook until the butter starts bubbling and turns golden-brown at the edges, about 1 minute. Remove from the oven.

   Required ingredients:

   • French baguette: 12 pieces
   • Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons
   • Ground cinnamon: 2 g
   • Sugar: 2 tablespoons

4. Let it cool slightly and carefully spoon the ricotta onto the buttered side of each toast. Sprinkle each piece with 1 tablespoon heaping of strawberries and drizzle with strawberry juice. Spray everything with balsamic vinegar.

   Required ingredients:

   • Ricotta cheese: 170 g
   • Strawberry: 230 g
   • Balsamic vinegar: 60 ml

5. Let the toasts sit for about 10 minutes to absorb some juice. Garnish with basil and sea salt.

   Required ingredients:

   • Basil: 2 tablespoons
   • Salt flakes:  to taste