Chef Mitchell preparing Prosciutto Arugula Crostini
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered Prosciutto Arugula Crostini during a trip to Italy, where it captured my heart with its simplicity and elegance. Over the years, I have perfected this recipe, adjusting the balance of flavors to create the perfect bite. It's a staple in my repertoire, bringing joy to gatherings and celebrations."

With over a decade of experience in Italian cuisine, I have a passion for creating authentic and delicious appetizers. My love for cooking began in my grandmother's kitchen, where I learned the importance of fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. I strive to share this passion through my recipes.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Prosciutto Arugula Crostini served on a plate

Why This Prosciutto Arugula Crostini Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its simple yet bold flavors. The crispy baguette provides the ideal base, while the creamy ricotta balances the salty prosciutto perfectly. Fresh arugula adds a peppery note, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

The technique used here emphasizes toasting the bread just right—ensuring it's crunchy yet not too hard. Layering the ingredients thoughtfully allows each component to shine, creating a harmonious bite every time.

đź’ˇ Professional Tip

For the best flavor, use high-quality prosciutto and fresh arugula. Toast the bread until it's just golden to avoid burning and preserve the texture. Don't rush the assembly—allow the ricotta to sit at room temperature for easier spreading.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the ricotta mixture and toast the bread a few hours ahead of serving. However, it's best to assemble the crostini shortly before serving to maintain the crispiness of the bread and freshness of the toppings.

If you're looking for a substitute, you can use smoked turkey or ham for a similar texture and flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider roasted red peppers or marinated artichokes for a savory touch.

The crostini should be golden brown and crispy when done. The toppings should be fresh and vibrant—avoid browning the ricotta or wilting the arugula too much; they should retain their color and texture.

It's not recommended to freeze assembled crostini, as the bread will become soggy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the toasted bread separately and assemble them fresh when you're ready to serve.

These crostini pair wonderfully with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Consider serving them alongside a simple salad or other Italian appetizers like bruschetta or caprese skewers for a delightful spread.

Assembled crostini are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftover toppings in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the bread separate to ensure it stays crispy.

You can prepare the individual components ahead of time, such as the ricotta mixture and toasted bread, but it's best to assemble them right before serving for optimal freshness and texture.

If you need to reheat, place the crostini on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the bread soggy.

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Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Crostini that are not crispy may not have been toasted long enough.

Solution: Ensure to toast until golden brown, and consider using a broiler for the last minute to achieve extra crispness without drying them out too much.

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Overcooked

Problem: If the crostini are overcooked, they may have a burnt taste.

Prevention: Prevent this by keeping a close eye on the crostini while toasting and rotating the baking sheet if your oven has hot spots.

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Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center can occur if the ricotta isn’t spread evenly or the bread is too thick.

Recovery: Spread the ricotta evenly on the crostini and choose thinner bread slices to ensure even cooking throughout.

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Burnt Exterior

Problem: Burnt edges can happen if the oven temperature is too high.

Prevention: Lower the oven temperature slightly and monitor the crostini closely while toasting, flipping if necessary for even cooking.

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Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a touch of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Too Salty: For overly salty crostini, try balancing with a touch of honey or a mild cheese.

Bland: If the crostini lack flavor, add more seasoning to the ricotta or a sprinkle of salt on top.

Fresh ingredients for Prosciutto Arugula Crostini

Essential Ingredients for Prosciutto Arugula Crostini

The key ingredients include crispy baguette, rich ricotta cheese, and high-quality prosciutto. Each element brings a unique flavor and texture that complements each other beautifully. Fresh arugula adds a peppery kick, while the balsamic glaze provides a touch of sweetness.

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is essential for achieving the best results. Opt for artisanal bread, organic arugula, and authentic Italian prosciutto to elevate this dish to gourmet standards.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Prosciutto: Look for imported prosciutto for the best flavor. It should be thinly sliced, allowing it to lay beautifully on the crostini without overpowering the other ingredients.
  • Arugula: Fresh arugula is key for its peppery flavor. Choose vibrant green leaves without any wilting or browning for the best taste and texture.
  • Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess. If it’s too thick, you can lighten it with a bit of cream or milk to achieve the desired spreadable consistency.
Cooking process for Prosciutto Arugula Crostini

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process is straightforward, involving toasting the bread and layering the toppings. Start by preparing the baguette slices, ensuring they're evenly oiled and toasted to perfection.

Achieving the perfect crostini requires attention to detail—monitor the toasting process closely and assemble with care to showcase each ingredient beautifully.

Key Technique for Perfect Prosciutto Arugula Crostini

The essential technique lies in toasting the bread to a crisp, golden perfection. This provides the necessary structure for the toppings while ensuring a delightful crunch in every bite.

Prosciutto Arugula Crostini

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

đź“‹ Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup balsamic glaze
    For drizzling
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
    For toasting the bread

For the Sauce

  • 1 French baguette
    Sliced
  • 4 oz prosciutto
    Thinly sliced
  • 2 cups arugula
    Washed and dried
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
    Creamy
  • 1 clove garlic
    Minced
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste
  • Parmesan cheese
    Shaved for topping
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
    For added flavor

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Toast the Baguette

    Arrange the sliced baguette on a baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil. Toast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown.

  3. Mix Ricotta

    In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

  4. Add Prosciutto

    Once the crostini are toasted, spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture on each slice.

  5. Top with Prosciutto

    Lay a slice of prosciutto over the ricotta on each crostini.

  6. Add Arugula

    Top each crostini with a handful of arugula.

  7. Drizzle Balsamic

    Drizzle balsamic glaze over the topped crostini.

  8. Garnish and Serve

    Finish with shaved Parmesan and basil leaves, then serve immediately.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover toppings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the toasted bread separate to maintain its crispiness. Reassemble fresh before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve crostini on a platter with extra balsamic glaze for drizzling. Pair with a refreshing salad or a selection of Italian appetizers for a full experience.

Recipe Variations

Try adding different toppings such as roasted red peppers, figs, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist. You can also substitute the cheese with goat cheese for a tangy flavor.