Cheese Crostini Appetizer

These crispy little toasts are topped with melted cheese and an added crunch with walnuts scattered on top. The combination of fresh herbs and seasonings is perfection and would make a fantastic appetizer for any party gathering!

Course Appetizer, lunch, Snack

Cuisine American, Italian

Diet Low Fat

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings bites

Calories 256kcal

Author Jillian Schneider

Equipment

large baking pan
small mixing bowl

Ingredients

1 whole wheat baguette cut lengthwise then into squares
¾ cup reduced fat shredded cheddar cheese Change it up to your liking with the type of cheese you use. I used cheddar, but you can also use goat cheese, blue cheese, even cream cheese would taste amazing. I've found that a soft cheese melts easier together.
⅓ cup chopped walnuts
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp oregano fresh herbs is the way to go, but dried oregano will also work
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
avocado or coconut cooking spray can also sub with olive oil spray
¾ cup grape tomatoes cut into quarters
1 tbsp avocado oil can also sub olive oil
1 tbsp lime juice the juice from half a lime
1½ cups arugula fresh
1 handful arugula, spinach, or kale optional for topping. I recommend sticking with whichever green you use for the actual recipe.

Instructions

First, preheat the oven to 350° and place baguette slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet. If you have a thicker baguette try and slice them into thin slices because they crisp up better.
This next step you can make ahead of time and save in your fridge. Then, when you're ready to bake the bread slices just remove from fridge and use when you need it. So, you will toss cheese with walnuts, tomatoes, seasonings, oil, handful of arugula and lime juice in a small mixing bowl and let marinade for 5 minutes.
Then, press equal amounts of cheese very firmly onto each baguette slice. This will help the walnut mix stick more onto the crusty bread. Then scoop out the walnut mix and press on top of the cheese firmly in even amounts. Coat liberally with cooking spray. The cooking spray will keep the toppings on.
Bake the baguettes for 10 minutes. Top with more arugula, spinach, or kale for some added greens. Serve with a smile and watch as everyone scarf them down :)

Notes

What can your kids do?

They can help you mix the walnut and cheese mixture and measure out all the spices!

Note: If heating up later on just warm them up in the oven for 5 minutes.

The best way to store your leftovers is once your crostini is cooked and cooled completely place in an airtight container and store at room temperature.

Nutrition