Description
These elegant butternut squash crostini bites are the perfect holiday appetizer, offering a sophisticated balance of savory and sweet. Tender, maple-roasted squash is seasoned with aromatic garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs, then spooned onto golden, toasted baguette slices. This simple yet impressive finger food provides a delightful contrast between the creamy, caramelized vegetables and the crunch of the bread, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Ingredients
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed into 1/2 inch pieces
1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp pure maple syrup
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh sage or thyme, finely chopped
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Sea salt flakes for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Toss the butternut squash cubes on a large sheet pan with two tablespoons of olive oil, the maple syrup, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Roast the mixture for 20 to 25 minutes until the squash is tender and edges are caramelized.
Remove from the oven and stir in the fresh herbs while warm.
Brush the baguette slices with the remaining olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet.
Toast the bread slices in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until golden and crisp.
Spoon a generous portion of the roasted squash mixture onto each toasted baguette round.
Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt flakes and serve immediately.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or a balsamic glaze drizzle before serving. The roasted squash mixture can be made up to a day in advance and reheated slightly before topping the fresh crostini.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 crostini
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg