Fig and goat cheese crostini are a delightful appetizer that marries the sweet, luscious flavor of figs with the creamy, tangy notes of goat cheese. The crunch of toasted bread adds texture, while a drizzle of honey enhances the sweetness. This appetizer is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare. Paired with a glass of Pinot Noir, it creates a sophisticated dining experience for your guests or a delightful treat for your next gathering.


Ingredients

For the Crostini:

1 French baguette or ciabatta, sliced into ½-inch thick slices
1 cup fresh figs, sliced (or ½ cup dried figs, chopped if fresh are unavailable)
6 oz goat cheese, softened
2–3 tbsp honey (plus more for drizzling)
1–2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Fresh thyme or rosemary leaves (optional, for garnish)


For Pairing:

1 bottle of Pinot Noir (a light to medium-bodied red wine, which complements the flavors beautifully)


Preparing Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the bread gets nicely toasted and crispy.


Step 2: Prepare the Crostini

Slice the Bread: Place the slices of baguette or ciabatta on a baking sheet in a single layer.

Drizzle with Olive Oil: Brush or drizzle the olive oil lightly over the top of each slice.

Toast the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.


Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the bread is toasting, prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese with honey (adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference). This will create a creamy and slightly sweet spread.

If using fresh figs, wash and slice them thinly. If using dried figs, chop them into small pieces.


Step 4: Assemble the Crostini

Once the bread is toasted:

Spread the Goat Cheese: Take the toasted crostini and spread a generous layer of the goat cheese and honey mixture on each slice.

Add Figs: Top each slice with a piece of fresh or chopped dried fig.

Finish with Drizzle and Seasoning: Drizzle a little honey over the figs for added sweetness and a touch of elegance. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors.

Garnish: If desired, sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary leaves over the top for a fragrant finish.


Step 5: Serve

Arrange the crostini on a platter, and they're ready to serve!


Pairing with Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir's light to medium body and fruity flavor profile make it a perfect accompaniment to fig and goat cheese crostini:

Tasting notes: Expect flavors of cherries, raspberries, and earthiness that balances well with the sweet figs and tangy goat cheese.

Serving Suggestion: Serve the Pinot Noir slightly chilled to enhance its refreshing qualities.


Final Thoughts

Fig and goat cheese crostini are an elegant and simple appetizer that will impress your guests. The combination of creamy goat cheese, sweet figs, and crisp bread creates a wonderful flavor experience, especially when paired with a lovely glass of Pinot Noir. Great for cocktail parties, holidays, or any time you want to treat yourself, this dish captures the essence of sophisticated, yet approachable entertaining.

Enjoy crafting these delightful appetizers and savoring the beautiful pairing with a nice glass of wine!