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Ingredients
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Crostini
Topping
Method
Crostini
- 1
Preheat and slice
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette on the diagonal into 12–14 slices about 1/2-inch thick.
- 2
Oil and toast
Arrange the bread slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with 3 tablespoons olive oil. Toast in the preheated oven for 6–8 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crisp. Remove from oven.
- 3
Garlic rub
While still warm, rub the top of each toasted slice with the peeled garlic clove to impart a subtle garlic flavor. Sprinkle the slices lightly with 1 teaspoon sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Set aside to cool slightly.
Topping assembly
- 4
- 5
Prepare mozzarella
Drain the fresh mozzarella and pat dry. Slice into pieces roughly the same size as the tomato slices (about 1/4-inch thick) or tear into bite-sized pieces if your tomatoes are diced.
- 6
Assemble crostini
Spread about 1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon of pesto onto each toasted slice (reserve a little pesto if you want extra on the side). Place a tomato slice or a small spoonful of diced tomato on top of the pesto, then top with a slice or piece of fresh mozzarella. Garnish each crostini with 1 fresh basil leaf (or torn leaves for smaller pieces).
- 7
- 8
Serve
Arrange crostini on a serving platter and serve immediately so the bread stays crisp. If making ahead, keep toasted crostini separate from tomato and mozzarella topping; assemble just before serving.