Try this sweet and tangy strawberry crostini appetizer with air-fried balsamic-marinated strawberries and fresh mozzarella. It's an easy appetizer or snack that feels elegant but comes together fast.
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I usually make this strawberry balsamic crostini when I want something light but impressive. It's especially good as a summer appetizer when strawberries are at their peak and naturally sweet. The mix of crisp bread, creamy cheese, and balsamic vinegars always feels like a special treat but comes together fast.
This is one of those appetizers I make regularly during spring and early summer, when fresh berries are everywhere, and gatherings start to move outdoors. I've served these for casual weekend snacks, small get-togethers, and even date nights at home. It fits right in for holidays like Valentine's Day, Easter, or Mother's Day, when lighter, seasonal flavors just make sense.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries - Provide natural sweetness, juiciness, and a bright, seasonal flavor that pairs well with balsamic vinegar.
- Fresh mozzarella - Adds a creamy, mild contrast that balances the sweet and tangy toppings.
- French baguette - Creates a crisp, sturdy base that holds the toppings without becoming soggy.
- Balsamic vinegar - Brings acidity and depth, enhancing the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Light brown sugar - Softens the acidity of the balsamic and helps caramelize the strawberries.
- Fresh rosemary - Adds a subtle herbal aroma that elevates the overall flavor.
- Kosher salt - Enhances and balances the sweet and savory flavors.
- Olive oil - Helps the baguette toast evenly while adding richness and flavor.
Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.
Instructions
Preheat Air Fryer to 325°F (163°C). Set cook time for 15 minutes.
Slice 5 strawberries into four and cut the remaining berries into two.
Marinate strawberries in sugar, salt, balsamic vinegar and fresh rosemary for at least 10 minutes.
Lightly coat each side of the bread slices with olive oil and toast in the Air Fryer until crisp, about 5 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Air-fry the strawberry mixture on parchment lined baking sheet for 8 to 10 minutes or until marinated strawberries are tender.
Add a slice of fresh mozzarella onto each toasted baguette.
Spoon balsamic strawberries over the cheese.
Garnish each with fresh rosemary for a pop of color.
Hint: Use ripe but firm strawberries so they soften during cooking without turning mushy. This keeps the crostini fresh, balanced, and visually appealing.
Variations
Here are some easy ways to change this easy strawberry crostini recipe:
- Swap out the fresh mozzarella with burrata, ricotta cheese, goat cheese, or whipped cream cheese for a different creamy texture.
- Add a drizzle of hot honey or regular honey for extra sweetness and contrast.
- Sprinkle on chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts for added crunch.
- Finish with other herbs like fresh basil or thyme instead of rosemary for a lighter herbal note.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze at the end for deeper flavor and a polished look.
Tips
Top tip: Toast the baguette until deeply golden and crisp. This helps it stay crunchy after adding the mozzarella and strawberries.
More cooking tips:
- Use ripe but firm strawberries to avoid a watery topping.
- Let the strawberries marinate briefly to build flavor without overpowering the balsamic.
- Slice the baguette evenly so all pieces toast at the same rate.
- Add the cheese while the bread is still warm so it softens slightly.
- Garnish just before serving to keep the crostini fresh and vibrant.
Serving suggestions
This strawberry balsamic crostini works beautifully as a light appetizer. I've served them for brunches, afternoon snacks, and even low-key dinner parties. It pairs especially well with my mango habanero wings, making the whole spread feel balanced and intentional.
If you're thinking about dessert, this crostini transitions surprisingly well into a sweet-forward menu. After a few bites, I usually finish the meal with something cool and creamy like my coconut ice cream. The contrast between warm, crisp bread and a chilled dessert makes the whole experience feel complete.
Storage
For best results, store the components separately rather than assembling the crostini ahead of time. Keep the toasted baguette slices in an airtight container at room temperature, and refrigerate the balsamic strawberries and mozzarella in separate sealed containers for up to two days. This helps prevent the bread from getting soggy and keeps the flavors fresh.
To reheat, warm the baguette slices briefly in an oven or air fryer just until crisp, then let them cool slightly before assembling. The strawberries are best spooned on warm or at room temperature. Assemble just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
You can prep the components in advance, but it's best to assemble the crostini just before serving so the bread stays crisp.
Ripe but firm strawberries are ideal because they hold their shape and won't release too much liquid when cooked.
Yes, burrata, ricotta, or whipped cream cheese all work well and offer slightly different textures and flavor profiles.
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Recipe
Balsamic Strawberry Crostini
Ingredients
- 10 small strawberries fresh
- 50 grams fresh mozzarella
- 4 slices French baguette
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons light brown sugar
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- pinch kosher salt
- olive oil for baguette
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer at 325°F (163°C). Set at 15 minutes for toasting baguette and air frying strawberries.
- Thoroughly wash and pat dry strawberries, remove leaves, and slice 5 strawberries into four while the remaining strawberries into two.
- Marinate strawberries in sugar, salt, and balsamic vinegar plus a sprig of fresh rosemary for at least 10 minutes.
- In the meantime, lightly coat each side of the French baguette slices with oil and toast in the Air Fryer until crisp, about 5 minutes and flipping baguette slices halfway through.
- Gently transfer marinated strawberries including the balsamic vinegar mixture and rosemary onto the parchment-lined Air Fryer tray. Slowly insert tray into the middle cooking chamber, near the rotisserie catch. Air Fry for 8 to 10 minutes or until marinated strawberries are tender.
- If using an Air Fryer with a basket, place the parchment paper into the basket and follow accordingly.
- Assemble the crostini by adding a slice of fresh mozzarella onto each toasted baguette, spoon balsamic strawberries over, and garnish with fresh rosemary.
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