Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 baguette or rustic bread, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing bread
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or sage, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 2–3 tablespoons goat cheese or ricotta
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Toasted nuts (walnuts or pecans), for garnish
- Balsamic glaze (for vegan variation)
- Prosciutto or crispy bacon slices (for protein variation)
Instructions
- Prepare the Butternut Squash: Peel and cube your butternut squash, then toss it with olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme or sage. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized at the edges.
- Toast the Bread: While the squash roasts, slice your baguette or rustic bread into thin pieces. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil and toast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp but sturdy enough to hold toppings.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spoon generous portions of roasted butternut squash onto each toasted bread slice. Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if desired, then top with soft goat cheese or ricotta for a creamy contrast.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, cracked black pepper, or toasted nuts for added flavor and presentation. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect harmony of crispy bread and warm squash.
Notes
- Cut butternut squash into uniform cubes for even roasting.
- Use slightly stale bread for optimal crunch and to avoid sogginess.
- Keep toppings balanced to prevent crostini from becoming too heavy.
- Substitute fresh herbs with rosemary, oregano, or basil if desired.
- Make ahead by roasting squash and toasting bread in advance, then assemble just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free bread)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 crostini
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: butternut squash crostini, easy appetizer, roasted squash, fall appetizer, quick crostini, healthy snack