Enjoy the bright tastes of springtime with our delicious vegan pea pesto crostini with mint, a fun take on classic appetizers. A lovely pesto made with aromatic mint, pine nuts, and fresh peas creates a delicious and nutritious taste burst. These appetizers, when presented with crunchy, golden crostini, are a visual and sensory treat.
These vegan bites deliver a burst of freshness in every mouthful, making them ideal for parties or as a light snack. Take your appetizer game to the next level with this simple, colorful recipe that will please your guests.
What you’ll love about this recipe:
- Light, fresh and flavorful.
- Bright and colorful. Visually appealing for elegant presentation.
- Easy to make.
- Crispy and crunchy, with creamy texture.
- Healthy and minimal ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen for the pea pesto?
Yes, fresh peas can be used. Simply blanch them briefly before incorporating them into the pesto.
How long can I store the pea pesto?
The pea pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to stir well before using leftovers.
Can I use a different type of bread for the crostini?
Certainly! While a baguette is traditional, you can use other bread varieties, like ciabatta or a rustic country loaf.
Is nutritional yeast necessary for the pea pesto?
Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor to the pesto, but you can omit it if preferred.
Can I make the pea pesto without nuts for nut allergies?
Yes, you can omit the pine nuts or substitute them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is gluten-free if you use gluten-free bread for the crostini.
Can I freeze the pea pesto?
While pesto can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
What occasions are these crostini suitable for?
These Vegan Pea Pesto Crostini with Mint are perfect for a wide range of occasions, from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties.
Can I make the pea pesto ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the pea pesto a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the crostini.
Can I customize the level of mint in the pea pesto?
Yes, adjust the amount of mint to your taste preference. Start with a smaller quantity and add more if desired.
How do I prevent the crostini from becoming soggy?
To prevent sogginess, assemble the crostini just before serving. If making them ahead, store the pea pesto separately and assemble when ready to serve.
Can I add other herbs to the pea pesto?
Absolutely! Experiment with additional herbs like basil or cilantro to add more layers of flavor to the pea pesto.
Can I add a spread such as vegan feta or ricotta to the crostini and then add the pesto?
Absolutely! Adding a vegan spread like feta or ricotta to the crostini before layering on the pea pesto is a fantastic idea. It can enhance the overall creaminess and flavor profile of the dish.
More Amazing Appetizing Crostini Recipes
- Blackberry Feta Crostini with Maple Sauce
- Apricot Almond Feta Crostini
- Pear and Walnut Crostini with Maple and Thyme
- Cranberry Sauce Crostini
- Strawberry, Spinach, Pistachio Crostini
Pea Pesto Crostini with Mint
Ingredients
For the pea pesto:
- 1 ½ cups frozen peas, thawed
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast
- ¼ cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic, mined
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
For the crostini:
- baguette, thinly sliced
- Olive oil for brushing
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush each slice with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven until the crostini are golden and crisp, about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let them cool.
- In a food processor, combine the thawed peas, mint leaves, nutritional yeast, pine nuts, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Pulse until well combined.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Season the pea pesto with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the flavors if needed.
- Once the crostini are cooled, spread a generous layer of the pea pesto onto each slice.
- Optionally, garnish the crostini with additional fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
- Arrange the Vegan Pea Pesto Crostini on a serving platter and serve them as a delightful appetizer or snack.