Mediterranean Olive & Roasted Pepper Bites
This exquisite Mediterranean-inspired appetizer brings together the rich flavors of kalamata olives and the sweetness of roasted peppers, all atop crispy baguette rounds. Perfect for entertaining or as a satisfying snack, this recipe is designed with acid reflux considerations in mind, avoiding common triggers like tomatoes and garlic while delivering bold taste. With a sprinkle of asiago cheese and vibrant garnishes of parsley and basil, these bites are not only delightful but also easy to prepare, making them a fantastic addition to any meal—whether served as an elegant starter, paired with soup, or simply enjoyed on their own. Explore your culinary creativity by adding your favorite toppings or changing the ingredients to make this dish your own!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
French baguette or whole grain baguette
1 (Sliced into 1/2-inch rounds)
Extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup (For brushing)
Kalamata olives
1 cup (Pitted and chopped)
Roasted red or yellow bell peppers
2 (Roasted and diced)
Asiago cheese
1 cup (Shredded)
Fresh parsley
To taste (Chopped for garnish)
Basil leaves
1 bunch (Fresh for garnish)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lightly spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
2
Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Arrange the rounds on the prepared baking sheet.
3
In a small bowl, combine the chopped kalamata olives, roasted peppers, and shredded asiago cheese. Mix well to combine the ingredients.
4
Brush each baguette round with extra virgin olive oil before evenly distributing the olive and pepper mixture on top.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the edges of the bread are golden and crunchy, and the toppings are heated through.
6
Once out of the oven, garnish each crostini with fresh chopped parsley and basil leaves to enhance flavor and presentation.
7
Serve warm and enjoy instantly, or store in an airtight container for later use.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mediterranean Olive & Roasted Pepper Bites?
They are a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer featuring kalamata olives, roasted peppers, and shredded asiago cheese served on toasted baguette rounds.
Is this recipe safe for people with acid reflux?
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed with acid reflux considerations in mind by avoiding common triggers like tomatoes and garlic.
What kind of bread should I use?
You can use either a classic French baguette or a whole grain baguette for added fiber.
What type of olives are recommended?
The recipe calls for kalamata olives, which should be pitted and chopped for the best flavor and texture.
What cheese is used in this appetizer?
The recipe uses shredded asiago cheese, which provides a rich and slightly nutty flavor.
Can I use different colored peppers?
Yes, you can use either roasted red or yellow bell peppers, or a combination of both.
What temperature should I set the oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking the crostini.
How long do these bites need to bake?
Bake them for approximately 10 minutes, or until the bread edges are golden and crunchy and the toppings are heated through.
How thick should the baguette slices be?
The baguette should be sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
What oil is best for brushing the bread?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and healthy fats.
Are there any fresh herbs used for garnish?
Yes, each bite is garnished with fresh chopped parsley and basil leaves.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and is designed for quick preparation.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, simply substitute the asiago cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily substitute the standard baguette with a gluten-free baguette variety.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container, though they are best enjoyed fresh to maintain the bread's crunch.
Can I serve these cold?
While they are best served warm straight from the oven, they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Does this recipe contain garlic?
No, this recipe avoids garlic to make it more suitable for those with acid reflux.
Does this recipe contain tomatoes?
No, tomatoes are excluded to avoid potential acid reflux triggers.
What is the primary category of this dish?
This dish is classified as an appetizer or a crostini.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! You can explore your culinary creativity by adding your favorite reflux-friendly toppings.
Should the peppers be roasted before assembly?
Yes, the peppers should be roasted and diced before being mixed with the other ingredients.
How do I prevent the bread from sticking to the pan?
Lightly spray your baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray before arranging the baguette rounds.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch (use about one-third the amount of fresh).
Is this a good dish for parties?
Yes, it is excellent party food because it is easy to prepare in batches and serves well as a finger food.
What if I can't find asiago cheese?
You can substitute with other shredded cheeses like fontina or a mild provolone.
Should I pit the olives myself?
It is easier to buy pre-pitted olives, but if you have whole olives, ensure the pits are removed before chopping.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: baguette, olive oil, kalamata olives, bell peppers, asiago cheese, parsley, and basil.
Can I prepare the mixture in advance?
Yes, you can mix the olives, peppers, and cheese ahead of time and store the mixture in the fridge until you are ready to bake.
Does this recipe use a lot of salt?
No additional salt is added, as the kalamata olives and asiago cheese provide plenty of natural saltiness.
Can I serve this with other dishes?
Yes, these bites pair beautifully with a light soup or a fresh salad.