Tomato Basil Crostini with Mozzarella is a vibrant, fresh appetizer that combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the creaminess of mozzarella, and the aromatic punch of fresh basil atop crisp toasted baguette slices. This dish embodies the essence of Italian flavors, offering a perfect balance of textures and tastes in every bite.

It’s quick to prepare yet elegant enough for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or casual weekend snacks. Simple, colorful, and utterly delicious, this crostini recipe elevates classic ingredients into a gourmet bite-sized treat that will impress everyone at your table.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together fresh, wholesome ingredients that are both comforting and sophisticated. The crispy toasted bread provides the perfect crunch, while the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes create a burst of flavor.

Fresh basil adds a fragrant note that elevates every bite, and a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze ties it all together. It’s healthy, easy to make, and versatile—perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to elegant hors d’oeuvres.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s simple yet impressively elegant. The combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is a classic that never fails to delight the palate. It’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, snack, or light brunch item.

The recipe is quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and looks stunning when presented on a platter. If you enjoy fresh, Italian-inspired flavors, this crostini is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per crostini
• Course: Appetizer / Snack
• Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or diced
• 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella, sliced or cubed
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or whole
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil.
3. Toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the tomato and mozzarella mixture by combining tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
5. Spoon the tomato-basil-mozzarella mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
6. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
7. Serve immediately while bread is still crisp.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Slice the Baguette: Cut the baguette into 1/2-inch rounds for uniform toasting.
2. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush each slice with olive oil on both sides.
3. Toast the Bread: Place on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.
4. Prepare Tomato-Mozzarella Mixture: Combine diced cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
5. Assemble Crostini: Spoon the mixture generously onto toasted baguette slices.
6. Add Optional Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over crostini for extra flavor and visual appeal.
7. Serve: Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.

How to Serve

Serve these crostini as a colorful appetizer at parties, a light snack for afternoon gatherings, or as part of a charcuterie board. Pair with a crisp white wine, sparkling water, or light rosé for an elevated experience.

Recipe Tips

• Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Toast the bread just before serving to maintain crispness.
• Drizzle olive oil or balsamic glaze right before serving to avoid sogginess.
• Fresh mozzarella can be replaced with burrata for an extra creamy twist.

Variations

• Avocado Tomato Crostini: Add mashed avocado under the tomato-mozzarella mixture.
• Pesto Crostini: Spread a thin layer of basil pesto on the bread before topping with tomatoes and mozzarella.
• Roasted Tomato Crostini: Roast cherry tomatoes for 10–15 minutes for a sweeter, deeper flavor.
• Caprese Skewers: Turn the crostini ingredients into bite-sized skewers for a fun party alternative.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red chili flakes for a subtle heat.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store toasted baguette slices separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Tomato-mozzarella topping is best fresh.
• Freezing: Bread slices can be frozen for up to 2 months. Re-toast before assembling the crostini.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare tomato-mozzarella mixture in advance and assemble just before serving to keep bread crisp.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush (for olive oil)
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife (for slicing bread and tomatoes)

FAQ

Q: Can I use regular mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella?
A: Fresh mozzarella is preferred for creaminess and flavor, but regular mozzarella can be used in a pinch.

Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes, replace mozzarella with vegan cheese or cashew cheese and use olive oil instead of any dairy-based spread.

Q: Can I prepare this for a large party?
A: Absolutely! Multiply ingredients as needed and toast bread in batches. Assemble just before serving.

Q: How do I keep the crostini from getting soggy?
A: Keep the bread toasted and assemble crostini right before serving. Avoid pre-mixing the topping directly on the bread.

Conclusion

Tomato Basil Crostini with Mozzarella is a simple yet elegant appetizer that brings fresh, vibrant flavors to your table. Its combination of crisp toasted bread, creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic basil makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Quick to prepare, versatile in flavor, and visually stunning, this crostini is perfect for parties, brunches, or light snacks. By following this recipe, you’ll create a dish that’s both delicious and impressive—guaranteed to be a favorite among guests and family alike.