Savor the Forest Crostini
Inspired by the Toronto Star's Chef's Showcase from the 80s, this rustic Savor the Forest Crostini features a delightful combination of earthy mushrooms complemented by crispy smoked bacon and aromatic garlic. Topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a hint of Italian parsley, this dish makes for a perfect warm appetizer or dinner substitute. Enjoy leftover crostini for lunch—the flavors only get better with time. This recipe is crafted by the renowned Chef Michael Bonacini, exemplifying the vibrant tastes of the forest on a toasted French baguette.
5
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
mushrooms, assorted
2 cups (roughly chopped)
olive oil
4 tablespoons (divided)
butter
1 tablespoon (unsalted)
smoked bacon
2 slices (diced)
onion
1/2 small (diced)
garlic cloves
2 (chopped)
Italian parsley
1 tablespoon (chopped)
Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons (grated)
French baguette slices
8 - 10 slices (cut 1/4 inch thick, lightly toasted)
Instructions
1
Heat a heavy-bottomed frying pan over medium-low heat and add 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the diced bacon and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4 to 5 minutes.
2
Following the bacon, incorporate the diced onion and chopped garlic into the pan. Sauté the mixture for about 2 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3
Increase the heat to medium and add the assorted mushrooms to the pan. Stir the mushrooms occasionally as they cook, allowing them to release their juices and develop a rich flavor. This should take approximately 5 to 6 minutes.
4
Season the mushroom mixture with a generous amount of salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped Italian parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, making sure the ingredients are evenly combined. Remove the pan from the heat and cover it, letting it rest for 4 to 5 minutes.
5
While the mushroom mixture is resting, lightly toast the French baguette slices until golden brown. You can do this in the oven or on a grill.
6
Generously spoon the warm mushroom mixture onto the toasted baguette slices, ensuring each slice has a satisfying amount of topping. Serve immediately and enjoy the rustic flavors of the forest.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savor the Forest Crostini?
The Savor the Forest Crostini is a rustic appetizer featuring earthy mushrooms, crispy smoked bacon, and aromatic garlic on toasted French baguette slices.
Who is the chef behind this recipe?
This recipe was crafted by the renowned Chef Michael Bonacini.
What inspired the creation of this dish?
The recipe was inspired by the Toronto Star's Chef's Showcase from the 1980s.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to provide 5 servings.
What type of mushrooms should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of assorted mushrooms, roughly chopped.
What kind of bread is best for this crostini?
A French baguette is recommended, sliced approximately 1/4 inch thick.
Can I serve this as a main course?
Yes, while it is a perfect warm appetizer, it can also serve as a dinner substitute.
What are the key flavor components?
The dish highlights earthy, foresty flavors combined with savory bacon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
How do you prepare the bacon?
Dice 2 slices of smoked bacon and cook them in olive oil and butter until they are golden brown and crispy.
How much olive oil and butter are needed for the base?
Use 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to start the sautéing process.
What aromatics are used in the mushroom mixture?
The recipe uses 1/2 of a small diced onion and 2 chopped garlic cloves.
How long should I sauté the mushrooms?
The mushrooms should be cooked over medium heat for approximately 5 to 6 minutes until they release their juices.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
One tablespoon of chopped Italian parsley is stirred into the mixture for a fresh aromatic finish.
Is there cheese in this recipe?
Yes, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese are added to the mushroom mixture.
Why do I need to rest the mushroom mixture?
Resting the pan covered for 4 to 5 minutes allows the ingredients to combine and the flavors to settle before serving.
How many slices of baguette does the recipe cover?
The mixture is enough for 8 to 10 baguette slices.
How should the baguette be toasted?
You can toast the slices until golden brown either in the oven or on a grill.
Can this recipe be eaten for lunch?
Absolutely; the recipe notes that leftover crostini make a great lunch as the flavors improve over time.
What is the total number of ingredients required?
There are 9 primary ingredients used in this recipe.
What type of butter should I use?
The recipe specifies using unsalted butter.
How much Parmesan cheese is needed?
You will need 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
Is the bacon cooked with the onions?
The bacon is cooked first for 4-5 minutes, then the onion and garlic are added for another 2 minutes.
Should the mushrooms be stirred constantly?
They should be stirred occasionally to help them release juices and develop a rich flavor.
What kind of parsley is recommended?
Italian parsley is used for its specific flavor profile.
When should salt and pepper be added?
Salt and pepper should be added to taste once the mushrooms have finished their 5-6 minute cooking period.
How is the topping applied to the bread?
The warm mushroom mixture is generously spooned onto the toasted baguette slices.
Is this a vegetarian recipe?
No, it contains smoked bacon, though it could potentially be modified for vegetarians.
Can I use just one type of mushroom?
While the recipe calls for assorted mushrooms to add complexity, you could use a single variety if necessary.
What is the primary texture of the dish?
The dish provides a contrast between the crispy baguette and bacon and the soft, earthy mushrooms.
How long does it take to cook the bacon?
It takes about 4 to 5 minutes to cook the diced bacon until it is crispy.