Description

Fig & Prosciutto Crostini is a simple yet elegant party appetizer combining the natural sweetness of ripe figs with the savory saltiness of thinly sliced prosciutto atop crisp toasted baguette slices. Enhanced with optional creamy goat cheese, a drizzle of honey, and fresh herbs, this bite-sized treat delivers balanced flavors and a stunning visual appeal, perfect for any gathering with minimal preparation.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Fresh figs – ripe and juicy, about 6-8 figs
Prosciutto slices – 8 to 10 thin slices
Baguette or crusty bread – 1 medium baguette, sliced about 1/2 inch thick
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons, for brushing the bread before toasting

Optional Ingredients & Garnishes

Goat cheese – 4 ounces, soft and spreadable (optional)
Honey – 1-2 tablespoons, light drizzle
Fresh herbs – 1 tablespoon thyme or basil, finely chopped
Cracked black pepper – a pinch, optional
Chili flakes – a pinch, optional

Variations (Optional)

Ricotta, blue cheese, or mascarpone – as cheese alternatives
Crushed pistachios or walnuts – 2 tablespoons, for added crunch
Roasted vegetables – thinly sliced, as a vegan prosciutto substitute
Balsamic reduction – for drizzling with a spicy twist
Seasonal fruits (pears or apples) – as fig replacements in off-season

Instructions

Prepare the Bread: Slice the baguette into evenly sized pieces about half an inch thick. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil to ensure they toast to a crisp golden brown. Toast the slices in the oven or on a grill pan until firm but not overly hard.
Slice the Figs: Wash fresh figs gently and slice them into thin wedges. This will highlight their natural sweetness and juicy texture, making them easy to layer on the crostini.
Add Cheese (Optional): Spread a thin layer of goat cheese or chosen alternative on each toasted bread slice. This adds creaminess and balances the sweet and salty flavors.
Layer the Prosciutto and Figs: Delicately fold thin slices of prosciutto over the bread slices, then carefully place fig wedges on top. Aim for generous yet balanced layering for every bite.
Garnish and Finish: Drizzle honey lightly over each crostini and sprinkle with fresh thyme or basil. Optionally, add a pinch of cracked black pepper or chili flakes to enhance the flavors further.

Notes

Choose ripe figs that are soft to the touch but not mushy for optimal flavor and texture.
Toast bread slices until crunchy on the outside but still with some chew inside; avoid over-toasting.
Use thin, paper-thin prosciutto slices for delicate texture that melts in the mouth.
When adding honey or cheese, start sparingly and adjust to avoid overpowering the figs or prosciutto.
Assemble and serve crostini shortly before guests arrive to maintain freshness and crispness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 crostini
Calories: 150
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1.5g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: fig crostini, prosciutto appetizer, party appetizer, easy crostini, elegant appetizers, fig and prosciutto, goat cheese crostini, finger food