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Butternut Squash Crostini

Butternut Squash Crostini

Butternut Squash Crostini is an easy and quick appetizer that perfectly balances creamy, roasted butternut squash with crispy toasted bread. Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights, it offers a delicious combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors with customizable toppings to suit any dietary preference.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 crostini 1x

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

  • 23 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  • Author: Lina
  • 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