Our Fig And Walnut Crostini Recipe

Combining the natural sweetness of figs with the nutty crunch of walnuts and a drizzle of balsamic, these fig and walnut crostini are a delightfully elegant appetizer. 

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, they’re perfect for everything from dinner parties to casual snacking.

This recipe proves that great flavors don’t need to be complicated. Let’s walk through how to create these irresistible bites!

Why You’ll Love Fig and Walnut Crostini

When figs are in season, they’re a true treasure—soft, sweet, and perfect for both sweet and savory dishes. Here’s why you’ll adore these crostini:

• Quick and Easy: You can have them ready in under 20 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute entertaining.
• Elegant and Delicious: They look stunning on a plate and deliver complex flavors without requiring advanced cooking skills.
• Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of the figs, the nutty richness of walnuts, and the tang of balsamic create a perfect harmony.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to something special, these crostini are sure to impress!

Ingredients for Fig and Walnut Crostini

You’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients to bring this dish together. Focus on using fresh, high-quality items for the best results:

• 1 fresh baguette: Cut into 8 slices, roughly ⅓-inch thick. Fresh bread is ideal, but slightly stale bread works great once toasted.
• 4 fresh figs: Thinly sliced. Smaller figs may require more to ensure full coverage.
• 3 tablespoons walnuts: Chopped. You can toast them for added flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor.
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze: Adds sweetness and tang to balance the figs.
• 1 cup radicchio: Core and thinly slice.
• 1 cup arugula: Adds peppery freshness to the side salad.
• 2 garlic cloves: Finely minced for a hint of flavor in the onion mixture.
• 8 green onions: Thinly sliced and cooked for a caramelized base.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste.

How to Make Fig and Walnut Crostini

Making these crostini is as simple as slice, toast, and top! Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prep the Bread

Cut the baguette into thin slices at an angle for a longer surface area. Each slice should be about ⅓ inch thick.

Step 2: Toast the Bread

Preheat the broiler and place the baguette slices on a lined baking sheet. Toast under the broiler for about 2–3 minutes on each side, until golden and crisp.

Step 3: Cook the Onion Mixture

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the green onions and garlic, cooking for about 3–5 minutes until softened. Stir in 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze and cook until it reduces slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Crostini

Spread a spoonful of the onion mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Top with sliced figs and sprinkle with chopped walnuts. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Step 5: Broil

Place the crostini back under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, just until the walnuts are slightly toasted and everything is warmed through.

Step 6: Make the Salad

Combine radicchio and arugula in a mixing bowl. Dress with a drizzle of olive oil, a splash of balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 7: Serve

Arrange the crostini on a serving plate alongside the fresh salad. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Fig and walnut crostini are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the bread is crisp and the flavors are vibrant. Here are a few serving ideas:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these crostini as an elegant starter for dinner parties or holiday gatherings.
• With a Salad: Pair them with a simple green salad or roasted vegetable salad for a light, sophisticated lunch.
• On a Platter: Add them to a vegan charcuterie board with marinated olives, roasted red peppers, and hummus.

For the best presentation, drizzle a little extra balsamic glaze over the crostini right before serving.

Tips and Tricks

These helpful tips will ensure your fig and walnut crostini turn out perfectly every time:

• Choose Ripe Figs: Figs should be plump, slightly soft, and fragrant for the best flavor.
• Toast the Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes enhances their nutty flavor. Be careful not to burn them!
• Keep an Eye on the Broiler: The crostini toast quickly under the broiler, so watch them closely to avoid burning.
• Make It Ahead: You can slice the figs and prepare the onion mixture ahead of time, but assemble and broil the crostini just before serving for the best texture.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to customize this recipe? Here are some ideas:

• Use Pears: If figs aren’t available, thinly sliced pears make an excellent substitute with their delicate sweetness.
• Try Sourdough: Swap the baguette for sourdough bread for a tangy twist.
• Add Vegan Cheese: For extra creaminess, spread a thin layer of vegan cream cheese or almond ricotta on the bread before adding the toppings.
• Experiment with Herbs: Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.

Final Thoughts

Fig and walnut crostini are a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a treat for yourself. 

The combination of sweet figs, crunchy walnuts, and tangy balsamic is a match made in heaven, and the quick preparation means you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy the moment.

Try this recipe the next time you want to impress your guests or elevate your snack game. Let us know how you like to customize your crostini—we’d love to hear your ideas!

Frequently Asked Questions