Pumpkin Crostini Recipe

"A crostini is dinner to me."

There's something so satisfying about a perfectly topped piece of crispy bread that can serve as a light dinner, elegant appetizer, or sophisticated cocktail hour bite. This pumpkin crostini combines the best of fall flavors in a way that's both rustic and refined.

Why Savory Pumpkin Works

Inspired to use pumpkin in a savory way, this recipe is a perfect combination of savory with a hint of sweet, all balanced on a crispy crostini base. While most people think of pumpkin only in sweet applications, its natural earthiness and subtle sweetness make it incredible in savory dishes.

The roasted pumpkin becomes tender and slightly caramelized, while the ricotta provides a creamy base enhanced with aromatic sage and shallots. The crispy pancetta adds that perfect salty, smoky element that makes each bite irresistible.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These crostini work beautifully as a light dinner when you want something satisfying but not heavy, or as an elegant appetizer that's sure to impress guests. The combination of textures - crispy bread, creamy ricotta, tender pumpkin, and crispy pancetta - creates a sophisticated bite that feels both comforting and special.

Ingredients

8 slices whole grain, seedy bread
Olive oil for brushing
1 small pie pumpkin
7.5 ounces ricotta cheese
1 shallot, sliced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
8 ounces pancetta, cut into small cubes
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon coarse ground pepper
2 tablespoons butter

Directions

Roast the pumpkin: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper. Cut off top and bottom of pumpkin, cut in half, remove seeds and strings. Cut each half into quarters, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes or until tender. Remove from oven and allow to cool. Remove skin from pumpkin and cut into cubes.
Prepare the crostini: Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Place bread slices on cookie sheet, brush each piece with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 10-13 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Make the ricotta mixture: Melt butter in small frying pan over medium heat, add shallot slices and cook until browning begins. Add sage and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Remove from heat and stir into ricotta cheese.
Cook the pancetta: Cook cubed pancetta in frying pan over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease. Reserve 2 tablespoons pancetta for garnish, add remaining to the ricotta mixture and stir to combine.
Assemble and serve: Spread ricotta mixture on toasted bread, top with cubed pumpkin, and garnish with reserved crispy pancetta.

Yield: 8 pieces

Pro Tips for Perfect Crostini

Bread Choice: Use a sturdy, seedy bread that can support the toppings without getting soggy
Pumpkin Prep: Make sure pumpkin is well-roasted and caramelized for maximum flavor
Ricotta Quality: Use good quality, whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture
Sage Timing: Don't overcook the sage - it should be fragrant but not burnt
Assembly Order: Assemble just before serving to keep the bread crispy
Make Ahead: All components can be prepared ahead and assembled when ready to serve

Delicious Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the pancetta and add toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds
Cheese Alternatives: Try goat cheese or mascarpone instead of ricotta
Herb Variations: Substitute thyme or rosemary for the sage
Squash Options: Butternut or delicata squash work beautifully too
Sweet Touch: Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze
Nut Addition: Top with toasted walnuts or pecans for extra crunch

Perfect Pairings

These pumpkin crostini pair beautifully with fall cocktails and wines. The earthy, savory flavors complement both light and full-bodied drinks.

Serving suggestion: Serve with a Fig and Bourbon Cocktail for a perfect combination that celebrates the best of fall flavors.

Other excellent pairings include:

Pinot Noir or Chardonnay
Prosecco or Champagne for contrast
Bourbon-based cocktails
Apple cider cocktails
Light beer or wheat beer

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this recipe lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The sweet, earthy pumpkin is grounded by the creamy, herb-infused ricotta, while the crispy pancetta adds that essential salty element. The sage and shallots provide aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish.

This is comfort food that doesn't feel heavy - it's sophisticated enough for entertaining but simple enough for a weeknight dinner when you want something special. The fact that all components can be prepared ahead makes it perfect for stress-free entertaining.

Embracing Savory Pumpkin

If you've never tried pumpkin in savory applications, this recipe is the perfect introduction. The natural sweetness of roasted pumpkin pairs beautifully with savory ingredients, creating complex flavors that are both familiar and surprising.

This crostini proves that pumpkin deserves a place at the table beyond dessert. It's a versatile ingredient that brings warmth, color, and subtle sweetness to savory dishes, making it perfect for fall entertaining and cozy dinners alike.