Olive Oil and Thyme Crostini -

Olive Oil and Thyme Crostini is not just an appetizer; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create extraordinary flavors. This dish highlights the aromatic essence of fresh thyme paired with the rich, fruity notes of extra virgin olive oil, making it a perfect start to any meal or a standout on your snack table. Easy to prepare and delightful to the palate, these crostini can be served as a light snack, a show-stopping hors d’oeuvre, or a delicious accompaniment to a wine night.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe for Olive Oil and Thyme Crostini is a must-try for its incredible simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a gourmet dish that impresses your guests. The crispy baguette serves as the perfect canvas, soaking up the olive oil and melding beautifully with the fragrant thyme. Additionally, this recipe is versatile—you can easily adapt it to include other toppings like tomatoes or cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser for all occasions.

Pro Tips for Making Olive Oil and Thyme Crostini

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh thyme and a high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors.

Perfect Toasting: Ensure your oven is fully preheated and keep an eye on the baguette slices to prevent burning.
Cut the Garlic: Rubbing the warm toasted bread with garlic infuses the crostini with a subtle garlic flavor without overwhelming the palate.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add other herbs or spices to the topping to make it your own.

Present Elegantly: Drizzle with a bit of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and a pop of color when serving.

Ingredients

This dish requires simple yet quality ingredients:

1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1 garlic clove, halved
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)

Sea salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Lightly brush both sides of the baguette slices with extra virgin olive oil.
Step 3: Bake the bread for 8–10 minutes, until golden and crisp. Keep a close watch to avoid burning.
Step 4: Remove the crostini from the oven. While still warm, use the cut side of the garlic clove to rub each slice, infusing them with flavor.

Step 5: Drizzle a little more olive oil over the crostini and sprinkle with fresh thyme, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 6: Serve immediately as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (serves 6):

Calories: 150
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g

Carbs: 18g
Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use any type of bread?

Yes, while a baguette is traditional, you can use any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough.

2. How can I store leftover crostini?

Leftover crostini can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

3. Can I make crostini in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the toasted bread ahead of time and top them right before serving.

4. What can I pair with these crostini?

These crostini pair beautifully with cheese, charcuterie, and a selection of dips such as hummus or tapenade.

5. Are there other ways to season the crostini?

Definitely! Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano, or add toppings like tomatoes, cheese, or olives.

Conclusion

Olive Oil and Thyme Crostini is an exquisite dish that combines ease with elegance. Perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe celebrates the flavors of quality ingredients. Whether you choose to serve it as a standalone appetizer or incorporate it into a larger spread, you can’t go wrong with this delightful snack. Gather the ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a taste of culinary delight!