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Butternut Squash Crostini

Butternut Squash Crostini

Butternut Squash Crostini is a simple yet elegant appetizer that brings together the creamy sweetness of roasted butternut squash with crispy toasted bread and a variety of flavorful toppings. Perfect for autumn gatherings, this dish balances warm, earthy herbs with fresh, crunchy textures and optional savory or sweet garnishes to impress guests or enjoy as a cozy treat at home.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12-16 crostini 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 3 cups)
  • 1 baguette or rustic bread, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or thyme or sage), chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

  • Goat cheese or ricotta, for spreading
  • Crispy bacon bits
  • Toasted nuts (pecans or walnuts)
  • Honey or balsamic glaze, for drizzling
  • Avocado slices (for vegan version)
  • Sprinkle of nutritional yeast (for vegan version)

Instructions

  1. Roast the Butternut Squash: Peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
  2. Prepare the Crostini Base: While the squash is roasting, slice the baguette or rustic bread into thin rounds. Lightly brush both sides with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toast the slices in the oven or on a skillet until golden and crispy, forming a crunchy base.
  3. Assemble the Crostini: Once the squash and bread are ready, build your crostini by either mashing the roasted squash slightly or placing whole cubes on each toasted bread slice. Add optional toppings like goat cheese, ricotta, crispy bacon, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of honey to enhance flavor complexity.
  4. Final Touch and Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of sea salt or cracked black pepper. Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the contrast of soft squash and crunchy crostini.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to enhance the earthiness of the squash.
  • Roast squash in a single layer to ensure proper caramelization and avoid steaming.
  • Choose sturdy, crusty bread to hold toppings without becoming soggy.
  • Serve crostini warm for the best flavor and texture contrast.
  • Add crunchy nuts or crispy bacon to introduce textural variety.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free (use gluten-free bread if desired)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 crostini
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: butternut squash, crostini, autumn appetizer, roasted squash, toasted bread, easy appetizer, fall flavors, vegetarian, vegan option