Creamy white bean puree on garlic-rubbed toasts
Garlic Parmesan White Bean Crostini
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
8 min
Total Time
18 min
Servings
4
16 crostini
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Budget
$
Garlic Parmesan White Bean Crostini
Creamy white bean puree on garlic-rubbed toasts
★4.4(15)
Crispy garlic toasts topped with a creamy white bean and Parmesan puree, drizzled with olive oil and herbs. An elegant 20-minute appetizer.
10m
Prep Time
8m
Cook Time
18m
Total Time
4
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Budget $
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
White bean crostini are a sophisticated appetizer that come together with pantry staples. The bean puree is silky smooth with a Parmesan punch.
They look and taste like something from a wine bar but take just 20 minutes from start to finish.
Italian cooking is built on a foundation of simplicity and quality ingredients. This recipe honors that tradition while being approachable for home cooks of any skill level.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tbsp olive oil plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic for puree, 1 clove halved for toast
- 1 baguette, sliced 1/4-inch thick
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and bake 6-8 minutes until golden.
- 2
While bread toasts, blend white beans, Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic in a food processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- 3
Rub each warm toast with the halved garlic clove.
- 4
Spoon or spread bean puree onto each crostini.
- 5
Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with fresh herbs and flaky salt.
- 6
Serve at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve with crusty artisan bread for dipping
Finish with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil
Pair with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette
Arrange on a platter for easy sharing at your next gathering
Substitutions
White beansChickpeas
Slightly nuttier flavor, equally smooth
ParmesanNutritional yeast
Vegan-friendly with a cheesy flavor
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Cannellini or Great Northern beans both work perfectly.
Top with halved cherry tomatoes or a balsamic reduction for extra flair.
The bean puree makes an excellent sandwich spread or dip on its own.
Storage
Store bean puree separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. Top toasts fresh.
Reheating
The puree is served at room temperature. Re-crisp toasts in the oven if needed.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (5mg) · 4 servings
Calories180
LowModerateHigh
A light, low-calorie option · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein7g
Carbohydrates6g
Fat24g
Fiber340mg
Sugar3g
Sodium1g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make the puree ahead?
- Yes, up to 3 days ahead. Bring to room temperature and stir before using.
- What if I don't have a food processor?
- Mash the beans well with a fork — it will be chunkier but still delicious.
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About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
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