Gourmet Salame Peach Ricotta Crostini: The Ultimate Summer Appetizer Recipe
This post has been sponsored by Gallo Salame, Inc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Experience the perfect symphony of flavors and textures with these Salame Peach Ricotta Crostini. Combining the satisfying crunch of toasted baguette, the creamy richness of ricotta, the savory depth of Gallo Salame® Italian Dry Salame, and the vibrant sweetness of fresh summer peaches, this crostini is an exquisite treat. Finished with a sweet balsamic glaze and fragrant basil, it’s an ideal appetizer for al fresco dining or a delightful summer snack. This recipe serves 8 to 10 and comes together in just 15 minutes.
As the warm embrace of summer finally settles in, my culinary adventurousness shifts towards celebrating the season’s bountiful flavors. There’s a particular magic in the air during these months that calls for vibrant, fresh ingredients and culinary combinations that dance on the palate. For me, summer is synonymous with the delightful interplay of sweet and salty, a balance that truly shines in dishes like these exquisite Salame Peach Ricotta Crostini.
Imagine biting into a perfectly toasted baguette slice, immediately met by the creamy coolness of ricotta cheese. Then, the rich, savory notes of premium Italian dry salame emerge, followed by the juicy, tart sweetness of fresh, sun-ripened peaches. This isn’t just a snack; it’s an experience, a symphony of textures and flavors that are both refreshing and utterly satisfying. Each component plays a vital role, culminating in a taste sensation that’s nothing short of a “fireworks show” for your taste buds, as I like to call it!
The star ingredient elevating this crostini from good to extraordinary is without a doubt Gallo Salame® Italian Dry Salame. Sourced from Safeway, this particular salame brings an authentic, deeply satisfying flavor that pairs impeccably with the sweetness of summer peaches. This recipe isn’t just about combining ingredients; it’s about crafting an unforgettable summer moment, whether you’re hosting an elegant garden party or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon on the patio.
The Secret Behind the Flavor: Why Gallo Salame® Italian Dry Salame?
When I embark on a quest for the perfect summer snack ingredients at Safeway, my selection process for salame is decisive: it has to be Gallo Salame® Italian Dry Salame. The reason is singular and powerful: **the unparalleled flavor.** This isn’t just any deli meat; it’s a testament to tradition and quality that truly makes it stand out from the rest.
The rich, authentic taste of Gallo Salame is born from a meticulous process. It begins with high-quality, hand-trimmed meats, slowly cured for weeks to develop its distinctive character. What truly sets it apart are the carefully selected Italian herbs and spices, a secret blend passed down through generations. These traditional components infuse the salame with an herbaceous, slightly peppery profile that is both robust and refined. This dedication to craftsmanship results in a deli fresh flavor that’s consistently exceptional, making it the ideal partner for the vibrant sweetness of fresh peaches and the creamy mildness of ricotta.
The unique balance of salty and herbaceous notes in Gallo Salame® creates an exciting contrast with the sweet peaches and the smooth, creamy ricotta. This thoughtful pairing ensures that each bite is an explosion of complementary flavors. To finish, a scattering of fresh basil leaves introduces a bright, aromatic lift, cementing the feeling of summertime with every delicious mouthful. It’s the perfect blend that transports you straight to an Italian al fresco experience, no matter where you are.
Beyond the Recipe: The Art of Sweet and Salty Combinations
The magic of these Salame Peach Ricotta Crostini lies in the classic culinary principle of balancing sweet and salty. This dynamic duo creates a more complex and satisfying flavor profile than either taste could achieve on its own. The saltiness of the salame and the savory notes of the balsamic glaze enhance the natural sweetness of the peaches, preventing the dish from becoming overly saccharine. Conversely, the fruit’s sweetness softens the intensity of the savory elements, creating a harmonious and addictive bite. This interplay is especially appealing during warmer months when lighter, yet flavorful, dishes are craved.
The creamy ricotta acts as a wonderful neutralizer, binding the distinct flavors together while adding a luxurious texture. It ensures that the transition from the savory salame to the sweet peach is seamless, creating a truly well-rounded experience. Add the subtle peppery freshness of basil, and you have a crostini that is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a crowd-pleaser for any summer gathering.
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Crafting Your Salame Peach Ricotta Crostini: A Simple Guide
Making these delightful crostini is surprisingly simple and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Here’s how you can prepare this impressive appetizer in just a few steps:
Toast Bread
Begin by thinly slicing a fresh French baguette. The thinner the slice, the crispier your crostini will be! Lightly brush each slice with a good quality olive oil. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap for even toasting. Broil on high for just 1 to 2 minutes, carefully watching until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are perfectly crisp. Over-broiling can lead to burning, so keep a close eye on them! Once toasted, remove them from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Make Balsamic Glaze
The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sophisticated sweetness and tang that ties all the flavors together. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until the glaze thickens to a syrupy consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Be careful not to reduce it too much, or it will become overly sticky. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in some freshly ground black pepper for a subtle kick. Set it aside to cool; it will thicken a bit more as it cools.
Assemble Your Crostini Masterpiece
Now for the fun part – assembling these flavor bombs! Each toasted baguette slice forms the crunchy base. Generously spread a big dollop, approximately 2 teaspoons, of whole milk ricotta cheese onto each piece. The ricotta provides a creamy, refreshing layer. Next, take your Gallo Salame® Italian Dry Salame slices – I like to cut them in half to create elegant half-moon shapes – and arrange two halves on top of the ricotta. This ensures a balanced savory presence in every bite. Finally, artfully scatter the chopped fresh peaches over the salame and ricotta. A final drizzle of your homemade balsamic glaze over the entire crostini adds a glistening finish and another layer of flavor. Garnish with a few delicate, thinly sliced fresh basil leaves for an aromatic flourish and a vibrant pop of color. Arrange them on a platter and watch them disappear!
Looking for more delicious ways to kick off your meal? Explore my extensive appetizer recipe page for endless inspiration!
Tips for Perfect Peach Crostini Every Time
Selecting the Best Peaches
The quality of your peaches can make or break this crostini. Look for peaches that are fragrant and have a slight give when gently squeezed. Avoid any with bruises or green spots, as these indicate they are under-ripe. Freestone peaches are generally easier to peel and chop. If your peaches are a bit firm, let them ripen on the counter at room temperature for a day or two until they achieve that perfect sweet spot.
Making Ahead and Storage
While these crostini are best enjoyed fresh to preserve the crunch of the bread, you can prepare certain components in advance. The balsamic glaze can be made several days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The peaches can be peeled and chopped a few hours before assembly, but if doing so, toss them lightly with a tiny bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. The salame can also be pre-sliced. Assemble the crostini just before serving to ensure the baguette remains crisp and the ingredients are at their freshest.
Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Absolutely, you can! While fresh peaches harvested in peak season undoubtedly offer the most vibrant flavor and ideal texture, frozen peaches are a fantastic alternative when fresh ones are out of season or not readily available. When opting for frozen, be sure to purchase pre-peeled and sliced peaches. The key step is to thaw them thoroughly before use. Once thawed, it’s crucial to drain any excess liquid. Peaches contain a lot of water, and frozen peaches tend to release more upon thawing. Draining them properly prevents your crostini from becoming soggy. After draining, simply chop them to your desired size and proceed with the recipe. The slight difference in texture is a small trade-off for enjoying this delicious appetizer year-round!
Do I have to peel the peaches for this crostini?
This is a matter of personal preference, but for this specific recipe, I highly recommend peeling the peaches. For me, the texture of the crostini is significantly enhanced when the peaches are peeled. The smooth, soft flesh of the peeled peach creates a more luxurious mouthfeel, complementing the creamy ricotta and crisp bread without any interruption from the peach skin. However, if you prefer to save time or enjoy the slight chewiness the skin adds, you can certainly skip this step. Just ensure the peaches are thoroughly washed before chopping. Experiment to see what you prefer, but for the most refined experience, peeling is the way to go!
Before you head to Safeway to gather your ingredients, remember to check your Safeway mobile app for any available coupons or special offers. It’s a great way to save on high-quality ingredients like Gallo Salame® and fresh produce!
If you’re looking for a delightful sweet ending to your meal that continues the peach theme, consider serving roasted peaches. They’re an incredibly easy and elegant dessert option that beautifully complements the flavors of this crostini.
Gallo Salame Peach Ricotta Crostini
Ingredients
- 1 French baguette sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil for toasting bread
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar good quality recommended
- 1/2 tsp packed brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 4 oz Gallo Salame® Italian Dry Salame thinly sliced, then cut in half
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese for optimal creaminess
- 2 large ripe peaches peeled, pitted, and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves thinly sliced (chiffonade)
Instructions
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**Prepare the Crostini Bread:** Preheat your broiler to high. Brush one side of each French baguette slice with olive oil. Arrange the oiled bread slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes, carefully watching them, until they are lightly golden brown and crisp. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and set the toasted bread aside to cool completely.
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**Make the Balsamic Glaze:** In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat slightly and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened to a syrupy consistency. It should lightly coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat, stir in the freshly ground black pepper, and set aside to cool. The glaze will thicken further as it cools.
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**Prepare the Salame:** If your Gallo Salame® Italian Dry Salame slices are large, cut each slice in half to form elegant half-moon shapes. This makes them easier to arrange and ensures a perfect portion on each crostini.
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**Assemble the Crostini:** To assemble your crostini, begin by spreading approximately 2 teaspoons of whole milk ricotta cheese evenly over each toasted baguette slice. Next, place two halves of the prepared Gallo Salame® on top of the ricotta. Follow with a generous spoonful of the finely chopped fresh peaches, distributing them evenly across all the crostini pieces. Drizzle a small amount of the cooled balsamic glaze over each crostini, then sprinkle with the thinly sliced fresh basil leaves for a final touch of freshness and color. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Whether you’re hosting a summer celebration, enjoying a quiet evening outdoors, or simply craving a sophisticated yet easy snack, these Gallo Salame Peach Ricotta Crostini are sure to impress. The harmonious blend of savory, sweet, creamy, and crunchy makes them an absolute standout. Give this recipe a try and let the flavors of summer brighten your table!