Bean Spread with Bacon and Basil Crostini

This delightful recipe offers a unique combination of flavors and textures, perfect for a savory snack or appetizer. You'll love the creamy bean spread paired with crunchy crostini and crispy bacon. The slight tang from the lemon and fragrant basil add layers of complexity to the dish. With a preparation time of under an hour, it is both convenient and satisfying. This recipe is ideal for gatherings, as it can be prepared in advance and assembled quickly. The spread is made using pantry staples, ensuring ease and accessibility. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is very straightforward. Its simplicity belies its bold flavors, making it a favorite among many. Serve it as an appetizer before the main course, or enjoy it alone as a light meal. Each bite is a blend of creamy, crunchy, salty, and fresh, promising a delightful experience to all.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 425 ml steamed white beans (Bonduelle "Vapeur")
• 150 g cream cheese
• 1 baguette
• 6 slices bacon
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/2 lemon
• Fresh basil leaves

Additional Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation: 10 minutes
  • Cooking: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating the oven to 160°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Baguette: Slice the baguette into thin slices and arrange them on the prepared baking tray.
3. Flavor with Garlic and Bacon: Place unpeeled garlic cloves and bacon slices alongside the baguette slices on the tray.
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Generously drizzle olive oil over the baguette slices to ensure a crispy texture once baked.
5. Bake Until Ready: Place the tray in the oven and bake until the garlic is tender. Keep an eye on the tray, as the crostini and bacon might cook faster than the garlic.
6. Crisp the Bacon: Once cooked, break the bacon into smaller pieces with your hands for easy topping later.
7. Blend the Spread: In a mixing bowl, combine steamed beans, cream cheese, peeled garlic cloves, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground pepper. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon.
8. Achieve a Creamy Texture: Blend these ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as desired.
9. Assemble the Crostini: Spread a generous amount of the bean paste onto each crostini slice.
10. Top with Bacon and Basil: Place bacon pieces over the spread, garnishing each with a fresh basil leaf.
11. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your crostini right away for the best texture and flavor.

Tips

• Substitutions: If you prefer, use whole grain bread instead of a baguette for added fiber.
• Lemon Variation: Use lime for a different citrus nuance.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spread for a spicy kick.
• Storage: The bean spread can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 200
• Protein: 8g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 18g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and increase the amount of garlic and basil for flavor.
• Vegan: Substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative and omit the bacon.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairings: Serve with a light salad or a refreshing sparkling beverage.
• Garnish: Consider a sprinkle of parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for added depth.

Best Places

• Le Croissant - Known for its fantastic baking and fresh breakfasts. Location: Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
• The Corner Café - Offers a wide range of pastries and artisan breads. Location: High Street, Oxford, UK.
• La Bella Italia - Italian-style bistro with authentic recipes. Location: Via Roma, Florence, Italy.
• Cafe Vienna - Famous for its coffee and light snacks. Location: Kärntner Straße, Vienna, Austria.
• Baker's Delight - Offers a delightful array of baked goods. Location: George Street, Sydney, Australia.
• The Bread Box - Known for fresh, rustic breads and pastries. Location: King Street, Toronto, Canada.
• Panadería El Buen Pan - A must-visit for traditional Mexican bakery items. Location: Avenida Juárez, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Boulangerie Pâtisserie - French bakery with exquisite pastries. Location: Rue Saint-Honoré, Paris, France.
• Bagel and Deli Shop - Serves creative bagels and spreads. Location: High Street, New York, USA.
• Café Brasil - Renowned for coffee and light Brazilian snacks. Location: Rua Augusta, São Paulo, Brazil.