Spring Pea and Mint Crostini recipe

Have you ever wondered how to make a simple appetizer that looks fancy but is incredibly easy to prepare? Imagine a crispy baguette topped with a creamy, fresh green pea and mint purée, finished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs. Sounds delicious, right? Spring Pea and Mint Crostini is the perfect appetizer for spring gatherings, brunches, or even a light snack. Let’s dive into how you can make this quick, healthy, and beautiful dish in just a few steps!

This Spring Pea and Mint Crostini recipe is special because it brings together bright, fresh flavors with minimal effort. The combination of sweet peas, fragrant mint, and crunchy crostini makes for an irresistible bite. It’s also:

✅ Quick to prepare – Ready in just 20 minutes.

✅ Beginner-friendly – Super easy, no cooking experience needed.

✅ Versatile – Great as an appetizer, snack, or even a light lunch.

✅ Healthy – Packed with vitamins and fiber from peas and herbs.

Perfect for spring and summer, this dish is an instant crowd-pleaser!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make the perfect Spring Pea and Mint Crostini:

For the Crostini:

• 1 baguette (or rustic bread) – Sliced into ½-inch rounds.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – To brush on the bread for crispiness.
• 1 garlic clove – Rubbed on the crostini for extra flavor.

For the Pea and Mint Spread:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas – The base of the spread, providing natural sweetness.
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves – Adds a refreshing touch.
• ¼ cup ricotta cheese (or feta for a tangy twist) – Makes the spread creamy.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice – Enhances brightness and freshness.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For smoothness and richness.
• Salt & black pepper – To taste.

Optional Toppings:

• Crumbled feta or goat cheese – Adds extra creaminess and tang.
• Microgreens or arugula – For a fresh crunch.
• Lemon zest – Enhances citrusy notes.
• Chili flakes – If you like a little spice.

Substitutions & Variations:

• No baguette? Use crackers or grilled pita.
• No ricotta? Try Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
• Want it vegan? Skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crostini

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the baguette into ½-inch rounds and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
5. Remove from the oven and rub each piece with a garlic clove for extra flavor.

Step 2: Make the Pea and Mint Purée

1. If using frozen peas, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a food processor, add peas, mint, ricotta (or feta), lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth but slightly textured. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Crostini

1. Spread a generous layer of the pea and mint purée onto each crostini.
2. Top with crumbled feta, microgreens, or lemon zest for extra flavor.
3. Drizzle with a little olive oil for a glossy finish.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: The pea and mint spread can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Storing Leftovers: Keep extra crostini in a sealed container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Store the spread separately in the fridge.
• Reheating Crostini: If the bread softens, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.

Recipe Variations

Want to mix things up? Try these fun variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Protein Boost: Top with smoked salmon or prosciutto.
• Extra Creamy: Mix in avocado for a richer purée.
• Nutty Twist: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or almonds on top.
• Mediterranean Flair: Add sun-dried tomatoes and olives.

This Spring Pea and Mint Crostini is fresh, vibrant, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a light snack, or just want to try something new, this dish is a must-try. Feel free to experiment with toppings and flavors to make it your own. Enjoy every crispy, creamy, and refreshing bite!

FAQs

1. Can I use canned peas instead of fresh or frozen?

Fresh or frozen peas are best for flavor and texture, but if using canned, rinse them well before blending.

2. How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread or rice crackers instead of a baguette.

3. What can I serve with this crostini?

It pairs well with a fresh salad, a glass of white wine, or as part of a charcuterie board.

4. Can I freeze the pea and mint spread?

Yes! Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before using.

5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The natural sweetness of peas makes it a hit with kids. You can skip the mint if they’re not fans.

Spring Pea and Mint Crostini: A Fresh and Flavorful Appetizer

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• Author: nakisha
• Total Time: 29 minute
• Yield: About 12 crostini 1x

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Crostini:

• 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, halved

For the Pea and Mint Spread:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
• ¼ cup ricotta cheese (or feta for a tangy twist)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Crumbled feta or goat cheese
• Microgreens or arugula
• Lemon zest
• Chili flakes

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crostini

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Lightly brush with olive oil and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden.
4. Remove and rub with garlic for extra flavor.

Step 2: Make the Pea and Mint Purée

1. If using frozen peas, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then rinse with cold water.
2. In a food processor, blend peas, mint, ricotta (or feta), lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Crostini

1. Spread a generous layer of the pea mixture on each crostini.
2. Garnish with cheese, microgreens, or lemon zest.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.

Notes

• Make-Ahead: Pea purée can be made up to 2 days in advance.
• Storage: Store leftover purée in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread or crackers.
• For Extra Creaminess: Add avocado to the spread.

• Prep Time: PT10M
• Cook Time: PT10M
• Category: Appetizer

Nutrition

• Calories: ~120 kcal per crostini