Pea and Mint Crostini with Garlic Whipped Feta Recipe

There are just some recipes that sing of sunshine and fresh air, and this Pea and Mint Crostini with Garlic Whipped Feta is definitely one of them. I first stumbled upon a similar appetizer at a small Italian bistro, and the vibrant flavors instantly transported me to a sunny terrace overlooking the Tuscan countryside (even though I was actually in my slightly less glamorous kitchen!). I knew I had to recreate the magic at home, and after a few tweaks and taste tests with my family – who devoured every last crumb, by the way – this recipe was born. It’s become a go-to appetizer for everything from casual weeknight dinners to more festive gatherings. The combination of creamy, garlicky feta, sweet peas, and refreshing mint on crispy crostini is simply irresistible. It’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser – exactly what you want when you’re entertaining or just craving a little something special. Trust me, once you try this Pea and Mint Crostini, it will quickly become a staple in your appetizer repertoire too!

Ingredients

This recipe is delightfully simple and uses fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Pea and Mint Crostini:

FOR THE FETA:

• 8 oz. Feta Cheese: The star of the show! Opt for a good quality feta, preferably in brine, for the best flavor and texture. Block feta tends to be less dry and more flavorful than pre-crumbled.
• 2 oz. Whipped Cream Cheese: This is the secret ingredient that makes the feta incredibly creamy and spreadable. It adds a touch of tang and mellows out the saltiness of the feta. Full-fat cream cheese will provide the richest flavor and texture, but you can use reduced-fat if you prefer.
• 2 Small Cloves Garlic, Peeled: Garlic adds a lovely savory depth to the whipped feta. Small cloves are recommended to avoid overpowering the other flavors, but adjust to your preference. Roasting the garlic beforehand can mellow the flavor even further and add a touch of sweetness.
• Salt and Pepper to Taste: Seasoning is crucial! Taste the whipped feta mixture and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Remember that feta is already salty, so you might not need much additional salt. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for the best flavor.

FOR THE CROSTINI:

• 1 French Baguette, Sliced: A French baguette is the classic choice for crostini. Its slightly crusty exterior and soft interior are perfect for toasting and holding toppings. Look for a fresh, day-old baguette for optimal slicing and toasting.
• 2 Tbsp. Olive Oil: Good quality olive oil is essential for drizzling over the baguette slices before toasting. It adds flavor and helps them crisp up beautifully. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its richer flavor.

FOR THE PEAS:

• 1 Cup Peas (Previously Frozen is Fine): Frozen peas are a fantastic pantry staple and work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to defrost them completely before using. Fresh peas, when in season, are also wonderful. If using fresh peas, you may want to blanch them briefly to tenderize them slightly and enhance their vibrant green color.
• 1 tsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil helps to coat the peas and bring out their flavor. It also adds a subtle richness to the pea mixture.
• ½ tsp. Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the pea mixture and adds a lovely zing that complements the mint and feta. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred for its brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to bottled juice.
• 2 tsp. Chopped Fresh Mint: Fresh mint is the star herb in this recipe, providing a refreshing and aromatic counterpoint to the creamy feta and sweet peas. Peppermint or spearmint both work well. Make sure to chop the mint finely to release its full flavor.
• Salt and Pepper to Taste: Season the pea mixture with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Again, taste and adjust to your preference.

Instructions

This Pea and Mint Crostini is incredibly easy to make, and the steps can be broken down into manageable parts. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this delightful appetizer:

FOR THE FETA:

1. Prepare the Feta Mixture: Crumble the 8 oz. of feta cheese into the bowl of a food processor fitted with a steel blade. Breaking it into smaller pieces will help it blend more smoothly.
2. Add Cream Cheese and Garlic: Add the 2 oz. of whipped cream cheese and the 2 peeled small cloves of garlic to the food processor bowl with the feta.
3. Pulse and Puree: Pulse the food processor a few times to roughly combine the ingredients. Then, scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is incorporated.
4. Process Until Smooth: Puree the mixture for a good minute or two, or until you have a completely smooth and creamy whipped feta. The texture should be light and airy. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.
5. Season to Taste: Season the whipped feta with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste it before adding salt as feta is already salty. Start with a pinch of pepper and a small pinch of salt if needed, then adjust to your preference.
6. Set Aside: Once the whipped feta is smooth, creamy, and seasoned to your liking, set it aside while you prepare the crostini and pea mixture. You can keep it at room temperature if you are assembling the crostini soon, or refrigerate it if preparing ahead of time.

FOR THE CROSTINI:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, although it’s not strictly necessary.
2. Slice the Baguette: Slice the French baguette into ½-inch to ¾-inch thick slices. You should get approximately 20-24 slices from a standard baguette, depending on its length.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the baguette slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overlapping to ensure even toasting.
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the baguette slices. You can use a pastry brush to spread the oil if desired, or simply drizzle it and let it soak in.
5. Bake Until Toasty: Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the bread slices are toasty and lightly browned around the edges. Keep a close eye on them as they can burn quickly towards the end of baking.
6. Set Aside to Cool: Once toasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and set the crostini aside to cool slightly while you prepare the pea mixture. They will crisp up further as they cool.

FOR THE PEAS:

1. Combine Peas and Olive Oil: In a medium bowl, combine the 1 cup of defrosted peas (or blanched fresh peas) with 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil. Toss to coat the peas evenly with the oil.
2. Add Lemon Juice and Mint: Add the ½ teaspoon of lemon juice and 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh mint to the bowl with the peas.
3. Season to Taste: Season the pea mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Again, taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
4. Toss to Combine: Toss all the ingredients together gently to combine, ensuring the peas are evenly coated with the lemon juice, mint, and seasonings.
5. Chill (Optional): You can prepare the pea mixture ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the crostini. Chilling the pea mixture allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and is especially refreshing if serving on a warm day.

TO ASSEMBLE:

1. Spread Whipped Feta on Crostini: Take the cooled toasted baguette slices (crostini) and spread a generous teaspoon of whipped feta cheese on each slice. You can use a spoon or a small offset spatula to spread the cheese evenly.
2. Create a “Nest” for Peas (Optional but Recommended): After spreading the feta, use the back of your spoon to make a small indentation or “nest” in the center of the cheese on each crostini. This will help the pea mixture sit nicely on top and prevent them from rolling off.
3. Top with Pea Mixture: Spoon a generous spoonful of the pea mixture on top of the whipped feta “nest” on each crostini. Be sure to distribute the peas evenly among the crostini.
4. Arrange and Serve Immediately: Arrange the finished Pea and Mint Crostini on a serving plate or platter. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. The crostini are best enjoyed soon after assembly to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Nutrition Facts

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Serving Size: Approximately 2-3 crostini (as an appetizer serving)
Yield: Serves 6 as an appetizer (approximately 20-24 crostini total)

Estimated Nutrition per Serving (2-3 crostini):

• Calories: 250-350 kcal
• Protein: 8-12g
• Fat: 15-20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8-12g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 5-7g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1-2g
• Cholesterol: 40-60mg
• Sodium: 400-600mg
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g
  • Fiber: 2-4g
  • Sugar: 3-5g

Important Considerations:

• Feta Cheese: Feta is relatively high in sodium and saturated fat. Choose reduced-fat feta and cream cheese options to reduce the overall fat content if desired.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is a healthy fat, but it is still calorie-dense. Use it in moderation.
• Baguette: White baguette is relatively low in fiber and nutrients compared to whole-grain bread. Consider using a whole-wheat baguette for a healthier option if desired, although the classic French baguette is traditional for crostini.
• Portion Control: Crostini are delicious and easy to eat, but be mindful of portion sizes, especially when serving as an appetizer before a meal.

Preparation Time

This recipe is wonderfully quick to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a delicious appetizer in a hurry.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

This includes the time to make the whipped feta, toast the crostini, and prepare the pea mixture. The actual active cooking time is minimal, making it a truly efficient and impressive appetizer.

How to Serve

Pea and Mint Crostini with Garlic Whipped Feta are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Classic Appetizer: The most straightforward way to serve these crostini is as a standalone appetizer. Arrange them beautifully on a platter and let guests help themselves. They are perfect for:
  • Cocktail Parties: Pair them with a crisp white wine, a refreshing spritzer, or a light cocktail.
  • Dinner Parties: Serve them as a starter before a meal, especially for spring or summer menus.
  • Holiday Gatherings: They make a delightful addition to holiday appetizer spreads, particularly for Easter brunch or spring celebrations.
  • Casual Get-Togethers: Perfect for backyard barbecues, potlucks, or game nights with friends.
• Part of an Antipasto Platter: Incorporate these crostini into a larger antipasto platter alongside other Italian-inspired appetizers such as:
  • Olives: Marinated olives of various types.
  • Roasted Red Peppers: Jarred or homemade roasted red peppers.
  • Artichoke Hearts: Marinated artichoke hearts.
  • Prosciutto or Salami: Thinly sliced cured meats.
  • Cheeses: Other cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or Parmesan.
• Alongside Soup or Salad: Serve a few crostini alongside a light soup or a fresh salad for a more substantial light lunch or dinner. They pair particularly well with:
  • Spring Pea Soup: Enhance the pea theme with a creamy pea soup.
  • Gazpacho: The coolness of gazpacho complements the creamy feta and mint.
  • Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: The lemon in the salad vinaigrette will echo the lemon in the pea mixture.
• Brunch or Light Lunch Option: These crostini can be a delightful addition to a brunch spread or a light lunch menu. They are especially lovely for:
  • Easter Brunch: A perfect spring-themed brunch item.
  • Mother’s Day Brunch: Elegant and flavorful for a special occasion.
  • Summer Luncheons: Light and refreshing for warm weather.
• Garnish and Presentation: To elevate the presentation of your Pea and Mint Crostini:
  • Fresh Mint Sprigs: Garnish the platter with fresh mint sprigs for visual appeal and added aroma.
  • Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest over the finished crostini adds a bright pop of color and flavor.
  • Drizzle of Olive Oil: A final drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the assembled crostini can enhance both flavor and appearance.
  • Arrange Artistically: Arrange the crostini in an attractive pattern on a platter, perhaps in a circular or cascading design.

Additional Tips for Perfect Pea and Mint Crostini

Here are five helpful tips to ensure your Pea and Mint Crostini are absolutely perfect every time:

1. Don’t Over-Toast the Crostini: Keep a close eye on the baguette slices while they are toasting in the oven. You want them to be lightly browned and crispy, but not burnt or too hard. Over-toasted crostini can be difficult to bite into and may crumble easily. Aim for a golden-brown color and a satisfying crunch.
2. Taste and Adjust Seasoning at Each Step: Seasoning is key to flavor! Taste the whipped feta mixture and the pea mixture separately before assembling the crostini. Adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice in the pea mixture, and the salt and pepper in the feta, to your liking. This ensures that each component is perfectly seasoned and balanced.
3. Make-Ahead Components (But Assemble Just Before Serving): You can prepare the whipped feta and the pea mixture a few hours ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. The crostini can also be toasted ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. However, it is best to assemble the crostini just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
4. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe is relatively simple, the quality of the ingredients really shines through. Use good quality feta cheese, fresh mint, and extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is also preferable to bottled juice for its brighter taste.
5. Get Creative with Variations: Feel free to adapt this recipe to your preferences and what you have on hand.
   • Cheese Variations: Try using goat cheese instead of feta for a different tangy flavor. You could also incorporate a little ricotta cheese into the whipped feta for extra creaminess.
   • Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, dill, or chives in addition to or instead of mint.
   • Add-Ins for Peas: For extra flavor and texture, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pea mixture for a subtle kick, or some finely diced shallots or red onion for a bit of sharpness.
   • Vegetable Variations: Intersperse roasted asparagus tips or blanched green beans with the peas for a more substantial and varied vegetable topping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about making Pea and Mint Crostini with Garlic Whipped Feta:

Q1: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A1: Yes, with a few substitutions! You can easily make this recipe vegan by using vegan feta cheese and vegan cream cheese alternatives. There are many good quality vegan feta and cream cheese options available in most supermarkets. Ensure your baguette is also vegan (most French baguettes are, but always check ingredients). The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.

Q2: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

A2: Absolutely! Fresh peas, when in season, are a wonderful addition to this recipe. You will need to shell them and then blanch them briefly in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process and maintain their vibrant color. Drain them well before using in the recipe.

Q3: How long will the whipped feta last in the refrigerator?

A3: The whipped feta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors may even meld together and improve slightly over time. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before using to soften it slightly and make it easier to spread.

Q4: Can I make the crostini ahead of time?

A4: Yes, you can toast the crostini ahead of time. Once they are cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crisp for up to a day or two. However, be sure they are fully cooled before storing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.

Q5: What wine pairings would you recommend with these crostini?

A5: Pea and Mint Crostini with Garlic Whipped Feta pairs beautifully with crisp, dry white wines. Some excellent choices include:
* Sauvignon Blanc: Its herbaceous notes and bright acidity complement the mint and lemon in the crostini.
* Pinot Grigio: A light and refreshing Pinot Grigio will not overpower the delicate flavors of the appetizer.
* Dry Rosé: A dry rosé, especially one with fruit-forward notes, can be a lovely pairing, particularly for a summer gathering.
* Prosecco or Sparkling Wine: The bubbles and crispness of Prosecco or other sparkling wines cut through the richness of the feta and provide a festive touch.

In conclusion, this Pea and Mint Crostini with Garlic Whipped Feta recipe is a guaranteed winner. It’s quick, easy, bursting with fresh spring flavors, and always a hit with guests. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet elegant appetizer for a dinner party, a light bite for brunch, or just a delicious snack to enjoy on a sunny afternoon, these crostini are sure to delight. So, gather your ingredients, toast up some baguette slices, and get ready to experience a taste of springtime in every bite!

Print