Imagine the perfect harmony of flavors – the creamy richness of baked feta, the briny complexity of olive tapenade, and the crisp crunch of toasted bread. This recipe for Baked Feta and Olive Tapenade Crostini is a celebration of Mediterranean cuisine, delivering a burst of flavors that will transport you to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with every bite.
Prepare to indulge in a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will elevate your appetizer game to new heights. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply seeking a delectable snack, these crostini are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore the secrets behind this tantalizing creation.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8-ounce) block of feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 cup pitted green olives
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the feta block in a small baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the feta is softened and slightly golden.
3. While the feta is baking, prepare the tapenade. In a food processor, combine the olives, olive oil, capers, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped but still has some texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp.
5. To assemble the crostini, spread a generous amount of the olive tapenade on each toasted baguette slice. Top with a crumbled piece of the warm baked feta.
6. Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and drizzle with additional olive oil, if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Serve these irresistible Baked Feta and Olive Tapenade Crostini warm or at room temperature, and prepare to be transported to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with every bite. The combination of creamy feta, briny tapenade, and crisp bread is a true celebration of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
