There’s something magical about a dish that brings together sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in one bite. These roasted beet, arugula, goat cheese, and honey crostini do just that. Perfect for a light appetizer or a stunning addition to your next gathering, this recipe combines earthy beets with creamy goat cheese and peppery arugula, all drizzled with honey for a touch of sweetness.
Ready to wow your taste buds? Let’s get started!
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and cover a baking sheet with aluminum foil. In separate bowls to prevent color mixing, toss each color of diced beets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Arrange each color of beets on separate halves of the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until fork-tender, then remove and set aside.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. Lay the bread slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until they are toasted, then remove and let them cool.
- In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese with milk until the mixture is smooth and spreadable. Adjust the milk quantity if you prefer a thinner consistency.
- To assemble the crostini, spread a small amount of the goat cheese mixture on each toasted bread slice. Top with arugula and roasted beet pieces, then drizzle with honey before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 baguette or loaf of bread, sliced thinly
- 4 medium-sized beets, peeled and diced (use a mix of red and golden beets)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 ounces goat cheese (plain or herbed)
- 3 tablespoons milk or cream
- 2 cups baby arugula
- Honey, for drizzling
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of cheese instead of goat cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute goat cheese with another soft cheese like feta or ricotta if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Is there a way to make the crostini ahead of time?
- You can roast the beets and prepare the goat cheese spread in advance. However, it’s best to assemble the crostini just before serving to keep the bread crisp.
- How can I prevent beets from staining my hands?
- Wearing gloves while peeling and dicing the beets can help prevent staining. Alternatively, you can use a paper towel to handle the beets.
- Can I use a different type of bread for the crostini?
- Absolutely! Feel free to use any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough as a substitute for the baguette.
- What can I do if I don’t have arugula?
- You can replace arugula with other leafy greens such as spinach or mixed salad greens for a similar fresh taste.
Tips
- Roast beets separately by color to prevent color bleeding, ensuring vibrant presentation.
- Toast the bread slices while the beets are roasting to save time, but monitor them closely to avoid burning at the higher temperature.
- Adjust the consistency of the goat cheese mixture by adding more milk if needed, making it easier to spread.
- For added flavor, consider using herbed goat cheese instead of plain, enhancing the overall taste profile of the crostini.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Mixing bowls
