Chef Rob Thomas’s Roasted Grape Crostini
If you’re looking to impress at your next gathering without spending hours in the kitchen, Chef Rob Thomas has the answer. Recently featured on the Marc + Mandy Show, this Goat Cheese Crostini with Roasted Grapes is a masterclass in balancing textures and flavors.
It’s creamy, tangy, sweet, and salty—all in one crunchy bite. Here’s how you can recreate this gourmet appetizer at home.
1. The Star: Roasted Grapes
Roasting grapes concentrates their natural sugars, turning them into little bursts of jammy goodness.
- Ingredients: 2 cups red seedless grapes (halved), 1 tbsp olive oil, a pinch of sea salt, and a few sprigs of fresh thyme.
- The Method: Toss the grapes with the oil, salt, and thyme. Roast them until they are soft and slightly blistered.
2. The Base: Whipped Goat Cheese
This isn’t just a slab of cheese; it’s a light, airy cloud of flavor.
- Ingredients: 200g goat cheese, 100g cream cheese, 2 tbsp olive oil (or heavy cream), zest of 1/2 a lemon, and a pinch of black pepper.
- The Method: Whip all the ingredients together until smooth. The lemon zest is the “secret weapon” here, adding a bright acidity that cuts through the richness.
3. The Finishing Touch: Thyme-Infused Honey Drizzle
To tie the whole dish together, Chef Rob adds a sophisticated drizzle.
- Ingredients: 1/4 cup honey and 3–4 thyme sprigs. (Optional: add a pinch of chili flakes for heat or extra lemon zest).
- The Method: Warm the honey gently with the thyme to infuse the flavor.
Assembly: Putting It All Together
Once your components are ready, the assembly is quick and satisfying:
- Toast your crostini: Slice a baguette and toast until golden brown.
- Spread: Apply a generous layer of the whipped goat cheese.
- Top: Spoon on a cluster of the warm roasted grapes.
- Drizzle: Finish with a sweep of the infused honey.
Pro Tip: Serve these while the grapes are still slightly warm for the ultimate contrast against the cool, whipped cheese.
