The Ultimate Make-Ahead App For The Holidays: Crostini

We're all about making the day of any holiday party as easy as possible - and these are Giada's secret weapon

Why are crostini so party-perfect? As the name in Italian, "little toasts" suggests, you can toast baguette slices up to a week before the main event, and the possibilities are pretty much endless. They're not just perfect piled-high with a topping of your choice, but they're a great addition to any cheese platter, paired with a dip, or in accompaniment with soup. All preparation work takes is a little olive oil, a little salt if you please, and some sliced baguette or rustic bread.
As for toppings? We've got you covered. Giada particularly loves her Ricotta & Honey Crostini with Pink Peppercorns: you can whip up the ricotta and honey a few days in advance and let it hangout in the fridge until your guests are ready to eat. Dollop some ricotta, sprinkle some pink peppercorns, and you're good to go with a picture-perfect pretty app.

Have gluten-free guests coming to the party? You can buy gluten-free crisps in advance, or use a different ingredient - like crisp fresh endive, or a baked/fried potato chip. 

Check out the recipes below for all kinds of crostini inspiration from Giada - including a DIY crostini bar!