Sweet grapes, creamy mascarpone and crispy shallots make these crostini a study in contrasts. The baguette slices toast right in the shallot-infused oil, while lemon zest, honey and lavender give the mascarpone a bright, subtly floral finish. Ready in just 20 minutes, this Grape & Mascarpone Crostini with Crispy Shallots recipe is an easy appetizer for parties, holidays or casual gatherings.
How To Make Grape & Mascarpone Crostini with Crispy Shallots
Stir mascarpone with lemon zest, honey, crushed lavender and black pepper, then season with Kosher salt. Thinly slice the shallots and lightly fry them in olive oil. Once crisp, transfer them to a paper towel or wire rack, then toast the baguette slices in the shallot-infused oil.
Spread each toasted baguette slice with the mascarpone mixture. Layer on sliced grapes and crispy shallots, then finish with fresh tarragon and additional lemon zest before serving.
10min
Prep time
10min
Cook time
5
Servings
Grape & Mascarpone Crostini with Crispy Shallots
Sweet grapes, creamy mascarpone and crispy shallots make these crostini a study in contrasts. The baguette slices toast right in the shallot-infused oil, while lemon zest, honey and lavender give the mascarpone a bright, subtly floral finish. Ready in just 20 minutes, this Grape & Mascarpone Crostini with Crispy Shallots recipe is an easy appetizer for parties, holidays or casual gatherings.
How To Make Grape & Mascarpone Crostini with Crispy Shallots
Stir mascarpone with lemon zest, honey, crushed lavender and black pepper, then season with Kosher salt. Thinly slice the shallots and lightly fry them in olive oil. Once crisp, transfer them to a paper towel or wire rack, then toast the baguette slices in the shallot-infused oil.
Spread each toasted baguette slice with the mascarpone mixture. Layer on sliced grapes and crispy shallots, then finish with fresh tarragon and additional lemon zest before serving.
Sweet grapes, creamy mascarpone and crispy shallots make these crostini a study in contrasts. The baguette slices toast right in the shallot-infused oil, while lemon zest, honey and lavender give the mascarpone a bright, subtly floral finish. Ready in just 20 minutes, this Grape & Mascarpone Crostini with Crispy Shallots recipe is an easy appetizer for parties, holidays or casual gatherings.
How To Make Grape & Mascarpone Crostini with Crispy Shallots
Stir mascarpone with lemon zest, honey, crushed lavender and black pepper, then season with Kosher salt. Thinly slice the shallots and lightly fry them in olive oil. Once crisp, transfer them to a paper towel or wire rack, then toast the baguette slices in the shallot-infused oil.
Spread each toasted baguette slice with the mascarpone mixture. Layer on sliced grapes and crispy shallots, then finish with fresh tarragon and additional lemon zest before serving.
Begin by combining the mascarpone cheese, lemon, honey, lavender, and some fresh black pepper in a bowl. Season with salt to taste and set aside.
Thinly slice shallots and lightly fry in olive oil before moving to a paper towel or wire rack.
Working in batches, add baguette slices into the shallot-infused oil and toast.
Top the toasted baguette slices with the mascarpone mixture, fresh sliced grapes, crispy shallots and fresh tarragon. Garnish with additional lemon zest and enjoy.
Tips for Success
Look for lightly golden shallots. Pull the shallots from the oil once they’re crisp and lightly browned; they’ll continue to deepen in color after cooking.
Keep the baguette slices even. Consistent slices make it easier to get crisp surfaces without some pieces becoming overly browned while others remain soft.
Soften the mascarpone slightly. Taking the cheese out of the refrigerator shortly before mixing makes it easier to evenly incorporate the honey, lemon zest and lavender without overworking it.
Keep components separate until serving. Prepare the mascarpone mixture ahead and refrigerate it but store the cooled toast and crispy shallots separately. Assemble close to serving time to protect their crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Grape & Mascarpone Crostini contain dairy?
Yes. Mascarpone cheese is the primary dairy ingredient, creating the creamy base that balances the crisp baguette, juicy grapes and shallots.
What pairs well with Grape & Mascarpone Crostini with Crispy Shallots?
Try these crostini alongside a leafy salad with a bright vinaigrette, roasted vegetables or a simple chicken entrée. The combination of sweet grapes, creamy mascarpone, aromatic tarragon and savory shallots pairs especially well with fresh, herb-forward dishes.
Can I substitute another cheese for mascarpone?
Mascarpone provides the smooth, creamy consistency that carries the honey, lemon and lavender without competing with the grapes. For the intended texture and flavor balance, stick with mascarpone; another soft cheese will noticeably change the finished crostini.
How can I keep the crostini crisp for serving?
Let the toasted baguette cool completely before storing it, and wait to add the mascarpone and grapes until close to serving. Keeping wet toppings separate prevents moisture from soaking into the toast and softening its crisp surface.
