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If you ever needed a sign to upgrade your holiday appetizer game, this Italian Roasted Pepper Crostini is it — seriously. This recipe hits that magical balance between “looks bougie” and “took me 10 minutes.” And let’s be honest: we all want to impress guests without sweating in the kitchen like we’re auditioning for a cooking competition. Ever wondered why some Christmas appetizers disappear in seconds while others sit lonely on the table? This crostini is the disappearing kind. Trust me.
I’ve made a lot of holiday finger foods over the years — some winners, some disasters, and one truly tragic cheese ball I still refuse to talk about IMO. But this Italian Roasted Pepper Crostini never fails. It tastes like something you’d find in a cozy Italian wine bar, but without the overpriced “seasonal small plates” menu. It’s bright, savory, a little smoky, perfectly creamy, and ridiculously easy to scale for a crowd.
If you’re hunting for Christmas Party Food Appetizers, Holiday Appetizers Easy, or ideas for a Christmas Charcuterie Board, this one fits in flawlessly. The roasted peppers bring that gorgeous holiday-red vibe, while the fresh basil adds a little green — yes, we’re basically building edible Christmas colors. Pinterest would be proud 🙂
This recipe also satisfies so many search intents without trying: it works as Easy Appetizers for Parties, Make Ahead Christmas Appetizers, and even as a Roasted Red Pepper Appetizer for casual dinners. If you love Baguette Appetizer Recipes, Goat Cheese Crostini, or Simple Italian Christmas Appetizers, you’ll feel right at home with this one.
Ready to turn your holiday table into something festive and delicious without losing your sanity? Let’s make this unforgettable crostini.
Ingredients
- 1 French baguette, sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 2–3 roasted red peppers (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ricotta or goat cheese (your choice!)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil leaves, finely sliced
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Balsamic glaze (optional but highly recommended)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place baguette slices on the tray and brush each one lightly with olive oil.
- Toast the slices for 7–8 minutes until crisp and lightly golden.
- In a small pan, heat olive oil with minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Spread a generous amount of ricotta or goat cheese onto each toasted crostini.
- Top with thin strips of roasted red pepper.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, and fresh basil on top.
- Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth.
- Serve warm or room temperature — both taste incredible.
Variations
Want to customize this crostini? Try these fun twists:
- Mozzarella Crostini: Replace ricotta with fresh mozzarella slices and broil for 1–2 minutes.
- Burrata Bliss: Use creamy burrata and top with cracked black pepper and lemon zest.
- Gluten-Free Crostini: Swap baguette slices with gluten-free crispbread or toasted GF rolls.
Serving & Tips
Serve these crostini as part of a Festive Christmas Appetizers spread or pair them with a Christmas Charcuterie Board. The colors pop beautifully next to cheeses, olives, and holiday greenery. If you’re hosting a party, you can toast the bread and prep the peppers ahead of time — then assemble just before serving.
Store leftover toppings in the fridge for up to 3 days. And FYI, leftover garlic oil tastes amazing drizzled on roasted veggies or pasta. You’re welcome 🙂
For an extra seasonal touch, serve these on a wooden board with fresh rosemary sprigs — it smells like Christmas and looks like a Pinterest-perfect holiday platter.
Final Thoughts
Every time I serve these Italian Roasted Pepper Crostini, someone asks me for the recipe — and someone else tries to sneak a few extra pieces (yes, Uncle Sam, I saw you last year). It’s the kind of appetizer that feels elegant yet comforting, festive yet effortless. If you want a show-stopping holiday snack without turning your kitchen upside down, this is your new go-to.
FAQs
Can I make these crostini ahead of time?
Yes! You can toast the bread and slice the peppers in advance. Assemble right before serving so everything stays crisp and fresh.
Which cheese works best for crostini?
Ricotta gives a mild, creamy base while goat cheese adds tang. Both pair beautifully with roasted peppers — choose based on your mood!
Can I roast my own peppers?
Absolutely. Roast whole red peppers at 450°F until charred, steam in a covered bowl, peel, and slice. Homemade roasted peppers taste incredible.
What can I serve these crostini with?
They pair well with soups, charcuterie boards, salads, or any Christmas Dinner Appetizers. They’re also perfect on a holiday grazing table.
Follow me on Pinterest for more Italian Roasted Pepper Crostini recipes!