Beef Crostini with Parmesan Crisps and Balsamic Drizzle
Beef Crostini with Parmesan Crisps and Balsamic Drizzle
Description
Tender sliced steak layered over crisp crostini with creamy garlic herb cheese, crunchy Parmesan crisps, peppery arugula, and a rich 25 Star Dark Balsamic drizzle for an elegant appetizer perfect for entertaining.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 12
Ingredients
2 boneless strip steaks, about 1¼ pounds total
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¾ teaspoon all-purpose flour
12 slices thin white bread, crusts removed
1½ teaspoons coarse ground black pepper
4 ounces garlic and herb cheese spread, softened
¼ cup 25 Star Dark Balsamic reduction, divided
24 arugula leaves
2 tablespoons Garlic Infused Olive Oil
Instructions
• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Combine Parmesan cheese and flour in a small bowl.
• Lightly spray a baking sheet and sprinkle Parmesan mixture into an even circle.
• Bake 6–8 minutes until melted and golden brown. Cool slightly, then transfer to a wire rack and break into crisp shards once cooled.
• Cut each bread slice diagonally into halves and arrange on a baking sheet.
• Bake 5–6 minutes until lightly toasted but not overly browned.
• Press black pepper evenly onto both sides of the steaks.
• Heat Garlic Infused Olive Oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
• Cook steaks 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until medium rare to medium doneness.
• Rest steak 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
• Spread about 1 teaspoon garlic herb cheese onto each crostini.
• Top with 2–3 slices of steak and drizzle each crostini with about ¾ teaspoon 25 Star Dark Balsamic reduction.
• Finish with Parmesan crisps, arugula leaves, and a final light drizzle of the remaining 25 Star Dark Balsamic reduction over the platter before serving.
Chef’s Tip
Slice the steak as thinly as possible against the grain for the most tender bite-sized crostini. The final fresh drizzle of balsamic over the platter adds a glossy finish and makes the flavor pop.
Flavor Variations
• Classic Dark Balsamic creates a rich, balanced balsamic drizzle
• Fig Dark Balsamic adds deeper earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with Parmesan
• Blackberry Dark Balsamic creates a bolder sweet-savory appetizer profile
• Add caramelized onions for extra richness
• Finish with flaky sea salt just before serving for added contrast and texture
BUILD YOUR PLATE
Turn this appetizer into an unforgettable spread
Build an impressive appetizer board by pairing these crostini with artisan cheeses, fresh vegetables, roasted nuts, and your favorite wine. The rich steak, creamy cheese, and balsamic drizzle make this the centerpiece of any gathering.
FINISHED MEAL
Beef Crostini with Parmesan Crisps & Balsamic Drizzle
Protein
Strip steak, ribeye, beef tenderloin, or grilled flat iron steak.
Vegetables & Sides
Arugula salad, roasted asparagus, marinated olives, roasted nuts, charcuterie, artisan cheeses, or fresh seasonal fruit.
Flavor Pairing
25 Star Dark Balsamic + Garlic Infused Olive Oil
Recipe Notes
For the best texture, assemble the crostini just before serving so the bread stays crisp. Using the balsamic in two layers—during assembly and as a final platter drizzle—creates deeper flavor while letting the fresh character of the 25 Star Dark Balsamic shine.
