This elegant Valentine’s Day appetizer combines creamy goat cheese, sweet strawberries, and a drizzle of honey on crispy crostini. It’s super easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests with its delightful flavor and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a romantic dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Goat Cheese Crostini

Simple Yet Sophisticated: The combination of creamy goat cheese, sweet strawberries, and honey offers a perfect balance of flavors.
Quick to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes.
Customizable: Adapt the recipe with different toppings like nuts or herbs to suit your taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: While ideal for Valentine’s Day, this appetizer works well for any celebration or casual get-together.

Ingredients

1 baguette: Sliced into 12 even pieces.
1/2 cup goat cheese: Softened for easy spreading.
1/2 cup strawberries: Fresh and diced into small cubes.
1 tablespoon honey: For a subtle touch of sweetness.

Equipment List

Serrated knife for slicing the baguette.
Baking sheet for toasting the bread.
Small bowl for mixing (if desired).
Butter knife or spoon for spreading goat cheese.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baguette

Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the Baguette: Use a serrated knife to cut the baguette into 12 slices, about 1/2-inch thick.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Toast the Baguette

Brush with Olive Oil (Optional): For extra crispiness and flavor, lightly brush each slice with olive oil.
Bake: Toast the baguette slices in the oven for 8-10 minutes or until golden and crispy. Flip halfway for even toasting.
Cool: Allow the toasted slices to cool slightly before adding toppings.

Step 3: Prepare the Toppings

Dice the Strawberries: Cut fresh strawberries into small cubes for easy assembly.
Soften the Goat Cheese: Let the goat cheese sit at room temperature for a few minutes to make spreading easier.

Step 4: Assemble the Crostini

Spread the Goat Cheese: Use a butter knife or spoon to spread a generous layer of goat cheese onto each toasted baguette slice.
Add Strawberries: Top the goat cheese with a small spoonful of diced strawberries, ensuring an even distribution.
Drizzle with Honey: Use a spoon to lightly drizzle honey over the strawberries for a touch of sweetness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and serve immediately. These are best enjoyed fresh while the bread is still crispy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 90
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 1g

Useful Tips

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use high-quality goat cheese and fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
Make Ahead Option: Toast the baguette slices in advance and store in an airtight container. Assemble the crostini just before serving.
Variations: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pistachios) or fresh herbs (like basil or mint) for added texture and flavor.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet appetizer, reduce the amount of honey or use balsamic glaze as an alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Cream cheese, ricotta, or mascarpone can be great substitutes for goat cheese.

2. Can I make this appetizer gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free baguette slices or crackers as a base.

3. How far in advance can I prepare this?

Toast the baguette slices a day ahead, but assemble the crostini just before serving to maintain freshness.

4. What if I don’t have honey?

Maple syrup or a light drizzle of agave nectar can work as alternatives.

5. Can I add protein to this recipe?

For a protein boost, consider adding thinly sliced prosciutto or smoked salmon.

6. How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?

Make sure the crostini are assembled just before serving to avoid sogginess.

7. What can I serve alongside this appetizer?

Pair it with a light salad, a charcuterie board, or sparkling wine for a complete experience.

8. How should leftovers be stored?

Store components separately in airtight containers. Re-toast the bread and reassemble before serving.

9. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended, but if using frozen, thaw and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

10. What other fruits work well in this recipe?

Try blueberries, raspberries, or figs for a delicious variation.

Enjoy crafting this delightful appetizer, and make your Valentine’s Day celebration truly special!