This crostini features a vibrant spring pea and asparagus spread on toasted baguette slices, perfect as an appetizer.
Author:Hank
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:12-16 crostini 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking and Blending
Cuisine:Mediterranean
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 loaf baguette, cut into 1/2-inch slices
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup fresh or frozen snap peas
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden and crispy. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of salted water to a boil. Add asparagus and snap peas, and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain well and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking. Drain again thoroughly.
In a food processor, combine the cooked asparagus and snap peas, mint leaves, lemon juice, and remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Pulse until a coarse, chunky spread forms. Do not over-process; you want some texture.
Transfer the vegetable spread to a bowl. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Spread a generous amount of the asparagus and snap pea mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
Serve immediately.
Notes
For a vegan option, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
You can prepare the vegetable spread ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Garnish with extra fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Any leftover spread can be used as a sandwich spread or mixed into pasta.