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Parmesan Crostini with Pear, Walnuts, and Hot Honey

Parmesan Crostini with Pear, Walnuts, and Hot Honey
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Parmesan Crostini with Pear, Walnuts, and Hot Honey is a vibrant appetizer combining savory, sweet, nutty, and spicy flavors. Toasted baguette slices are topped with freshly grated Parmesan, crisp pear slices, toasted walnuts, and drizzled with chili-infused hot honey, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Quick to prepare yet elegant, this dish makes a crowd-pleasing starter for any occasion.

Ingredients

Bread Base

  • Baguette or Rustic Bread, sliced thin (¼ inch thick)
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil, for brushing

Toppings

  • Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated, about 1 cup
  • Pear, firm variety like Bartlett or Anjou, thinly sliced (1 medium pear)
  • Walnuts, lightly toasted, about ½ cup
  • Hot Honey (honey infused with chili peppers), for drizzling, about 2 tablespoons
  • Fresh Herbs (optional: thyme or rosemary), for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Slice the baguette into ¼-inch thick pieces. Lightly brush each side with extra virgin olive oil. Toast in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy to create a sturdy base.
  2. Toast the Walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and slightly browned. This enhances their nutty flavor and crunch.
  3. Assemble the Crostini: After the bread has cooled slightly, evenly layer shredded Parmesan on each slice. Add thin slices of pear on top, then sprinkle with the toasted walnuts for texture.
  4. Drizzle Hot Honey: Generously drizzle hot honey over the assembled crostini. The warm honey will slightly melt the cheese, blending the flavors. Optionally, add fresh herb leaves like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

Notes

  • Use firm pears to maintain crispness and prevent sogginess.
  • Grate Parmesan fresh for optimal flavor and melt.
  • Keep toppings balanced to avoid overloading and soggy bites.
  • Homemade hot honey can be made by infusing honey with chili flakes to control heat.
  • Slightly warm crostini before serving to enhance cheese flavor and soften honey.
  • Store leftover toppings separately from bread to avoid sogginess.
  • Freeze toasted bread slices wrapped tightly, but avoid freezing assembled crostini.

Nutrition

Keywords: Parmesan crostini, appetizer, pear, walnuts, hot honey, savory, sweet, spicy, easy appetizer

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/parmesan-crostini-with-pear-walnuts-and-hot-honey/