Name: Sun-Dried Tomato Jam and Feta Crostini Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup dry sun-dried tomatoes (thinly sliced); 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil; 2 shallots (thinly sliced); 1 garlic clove (minced); 2 tablespoons honey; ¼ cup red wine vinegar; ½ cup reduced-sodium chicken broth; ¾ cup water; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 6 ounces fat-free feta cheese (freshly crumbled); 3 tablespoons reduced-fat cream cheese; 1 French baguette; 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil (for brushing the bread)

Introduction

Sun-Dried Tomato Jam and Feta Crostini is a delightful appetizer that combines tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. The rich whipped feta pairs perfectly with the thick, flavorful tomato jam, all served atop crispy toasted baguette slices. It’s an impressive yet easy-to-make dish perfect for entertaining or a special snack.

The image shows six slices of toasted bread arranged on a dark gray rectangular plate. Each slice has two layers: the bottom layer is a golden-brown toasted bread with a slightly crusty texture, the middle layer is a fluffy, white creamy cheese spread, and the top layer consists of a rich, dark reddish-brown sun-dried tomato topping that looks glossy and textured. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a blurred white bowl and a bottle of olive oil in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup dry sun-dried tomatoes (thinly sliced)

2 tablespoons grapeseed oil (plus 1 tablespoon extra for brushing the bread)

2 shallots (thinly sliced)

1 garlic clove (minced)

2 tablespoons honey

¼ cup red wine vinegar

½ cup reduced-sodium chicken broth

¾ cup water

1 teaspoon dried thyme

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

6 ounces fat-free feta cheese (freshly crumbled)

3 tablespoons reduced-fat cream cheese

1 French baguette

Instructions

Step 1: Make the sun-dried tomato jam by heating 2 tablespoons of grapeseed oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and shallots, cooking until softened, about 4–6 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Add honey, red wine vinegar, chicken broth, water, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Let it simmer for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: After simmering, uncover and continue to cook for another 10 minutes until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat, transfer to a food processor, and pulse a few times to slightly smooth the texture. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the whipped feta by placing crumbled feta into a food processor. Pulse 2–3 times until small crumbles form. Add cream cheese and pulse for 20–30 seconds until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Set aside.

Step 5: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Slice the baguette into ½-inch pieces and brush both sides with the remaining tablespoon of grapeseed oil. Arrange on a baking sheet.

Step 6: Toast the baguette slices in the oven for 3–4 minutes, flip them, and toast for another 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Remove and let cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: To assemble, spread a generous amount of whipped feta on each toasted baguette slice and top with a spoonful of sun-dried tomato jam. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use reduced-fat or full-fat cheeses depending on your preference for richness.

For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Add a few fresh basil leaves on top of the crostini for an extra aroma and freshness.

If you don’t have grapeseed oil, olive oil works well as a substitute.

FAQs

Can I make the sun-dried tomato jam ahead of time?

Yes, the jam can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to deepen and develop even more.

What can I use instead of a French baguette?

You can use any crusty bread like ciabatta, sourdough, or even sturdy crackers to hold the toppings. Just make sure to toast them to get a nice crunchy texture.