Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 (16 crostini)

Ingredients

For the Crostini

• 1 French baguette, sliced into 16 pieces (½-inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

For the Brown Butter

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4–6 fresh sage leaves (optional)

For the Topping

• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese or whipped goat cheese
• 8–10 fresh radishes, very thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley
• Flaky sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Microgreens or pea shoots (optional)
• Drizzle of honey or hot honey (optional, for a sweet-savory finish)

Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Bread

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir frequently as it foams and the milk solids begin to turn golden brown, about 4–6 minutes. If using sage leaves, add them during the last minute to crisp slightly and infuse the butter. Remove from the heat immediately to prevent burning.

Step 3: Prepare the Radishes

Wash and trim the radishes, then slice them paper-thin using a sharp knife or mandoline. Pat dry with a paper towel if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Crostini

Spread a generous layer of ricotta or whipped goat cheese onto each toasted baguette slice. Arrange the radish slices on top, slightly overlapping for an attractive presentation.

Step 5: Finish

Spoon the warm brown butter over each crostini. Sprinkle with lemon zest, chopped chives, dill or parsley, flaky sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Add microgreens and a light drizzle of honey or hot honey if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately while the crostini are crisp and the brown butter is still warm.

Serving Suggestions

These crostini pair beautifully with:

• Charcuterie and cheese boards
• Fresh green salads
• Roasted asparagus
• Tomato soup
• Sparkling water, white wine, or rosé
• Brunch spreads
• Spring and summer entertaining menus

Recipe Tips

• Slice the radishes as thinly as possible for the best texture.
• Watch the butter carefully while browning—it can go from golden to burnt quickly.
• Toast the bread until crisp so it holds the toppings without becoming soggy.
• Assemble just before serving to maintain the crunch.
• Use high-quality whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.

Storage

• Crostini: Store toasted bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Brown Butter: Refrigerate for up to 5 days and gently reheat before serving.
• Assembled Crostini: Best enjoyed immediately and not recommended for storage, as the bread will soften.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use goat cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes! Soft goat cheese adds a tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the nutty brown butter and peppery radishes.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can toast the bread, brown the butter, and prepare the toppings ahead of time. Assemble the crostini just before serving for the best texture.

What herbs work best?

Fresh chives, dill, parsley, tarragon, or basil all complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use your favorite gluten-free baguette or crackers instead of traditional bread.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Try toasted walnuts, crushed pistachios, lemon thyme, everything bagel seasoning, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for delicious variations.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving – 2 Crostini)

• Calories: 235
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 260mg