This 3-Ingredient Appetizer Is My Italian Family's Favorite

In my mom’s Italian family, each of the six siblings hosts a major holiday and our holiday has always been Christmas Eve. As soon as I was old enough to actually be helpful in the kitchen, I was put on appetizer duty.

Among the array of appetizers, one became my specialty during Christmas Eve preparations. I remember creating a personal assembly line: spreading sweet apricot preserves, dolloping tangy goat cheese, and delicately placing strips of basil onto bite-sized bruschetta crackers. 

The simple yet elegant crostinis, designed by my mom and executed by moi, have remained a staple on Christmas Eve. Every year, while my mom prepares crabcakes, Coquilles St. Jacques, and a big tray of penne alla vodka, I construct the goat cheese crostinis.

I quickly discovered that they were delicious, popping one in my mouth for every ten I made. Today, I savor them with a glass of red wine or a holiday cocktail, but back then it was in between sips of sparkling apple cider. Guests can just reach over and grab one mid-conversation, which is a beautiful thing.

How To Make 3-Ingredient Goat Cheese Crostini

All you need to make this festive appetizer is bruschetta-style crackers, apricot preserves, goat cheese, and (optional) fresh basil. To assemble them, use a knife to spread apricot preserves onto all of your crackers. 

Using a knife or spoon (which I often found easier), place a dollop of goat cheese on top of the preserves. If you’re using basil, chop or tear it into small pieces and gently press one piece into each dollop of goat cheese. Voila, you’re done!

While you don’t want to prepare these too far in advance because they can get soggy, you can assemble them up to 30 minutes before serving.

Ingredient Tips

While many crostinis start by toasting fresh Italian bread, I prefer using thick crackers to save time and keep it truly bite-size. My favorite are the Bruschettini Crackers by Asturi, which you can find at Target. There are typically good bruschetta-style crackers near the deli section of any grocery store.

Apricot preserves (thicker and chunkier than jam) provide the perfect balance of sweet and tart. If apricot preserves aren’t available, fig preserves make a good substitute—the natural, honey-like sweetness compliments the pungent goat cheese.

Any spreadable goat cheese (or chevre) works well for this recipe. If you’d like to make the recipe dairy-free, you can substitute a vegan goat cheese alternative. I even like using Violife’s Just Like Feta, which has a great tangy flavor.

For the final step, I love topping the crostini with fresh basil for a pop of color and earthy element. Fresh mint or thyme would be delicious here too. If you’re looking for an extra flair, you can add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or hot honey.