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ROMAN-INSPIRED WHITE BEAN AND PANCETTA CROSTINI

By Delicious Recipes!Posted on
ROMAN-INSPIRED WHITE BEAN AND PANCETTA CROSTINI

ROMAN-INSPIRED WHITE BEAN AND PANCETTA CROSTINI

A memorable Roman appetizer inspired by a spontaneous dining experience near Campo de’ Fiori and the Tiber River. Creamy white beans sautéed with crispy pancetta and garlic, served atop grilled baguette slices brushed with Parmesan and fresh parsley. A perfect blend of rustic flavors and textures.

🕒 Prep Time: 15 min + bean cooking time

🍳 Cook Time: 10 min
🍰 Servings: 8-10 crostini

Ingredients

For the Crostini:

  • 250 g cooked white beans
  • 3 thin slices pancetta (preferably unsmoked)
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 8 baguette slices
  • 25 g finely grated Parmesan
  • 3-4 sprigs fresh parsley, chopped
  • Olive oil
  • Salt, freshly ground black pepper, chili flakes

For cooking beans (if using dried):

  • 1-2 bay leaves
  • 1 small onion, halved
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary

Instructions

  1. Cooking the beans: If using fresh white beans, simmer in plenty of water with bay leaves, onion halves, and rosemary for about 45 minutes until tender but not mushy. About 30 minutes in, begin checking doneness. Once cooked, add salt to the water (make it pleasantly salty), cover, and let beans cool in the cooking liquid to absorb flavors and avoid splitting skins.
  • For dried beans, soak overnight before cooking, then follow the same method with longer cooking time.
  1. Drain cooked beans and refrigerate until ready to use. Measure 250 g for the recipe.
  2. Tear pancetta into bite-sized pieces and cook in a large pan over medium heat until nicely browned but not overly crisp or brittle.
  3. If pancetta releases little fat, add 1 tbsp olive oil to the pan. Add 1 crushed garlic clove and sauté for 1 minute.
  4. Season with generous black pepper and chili flakes to taste. Add cooked beans and sauté together for 2 minutes. Adjust salt as needed.
  5. Grill or toast baguette slices brushed lightly with olive oil until golden but still tender enough to bite easily.
  6. Mix grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and crushed garlic together. Press baguette slices lightly into this mixture so it adheres as a thin layer. Arrange on a serving platter.
  7. Spoon a generous amount of the bean and pancetta mixture onto each crostini. Serve immediately while warm.

💡 Tips

  • Letting beans cool in their cooking liquid enhances flavor and texture.
  • Avoid over-toasting bread to keep it easy to eat with the topping.
  • Use fresh, quality pancetta for the best taste and texture.

🎉 Perfect For

  • Authentic Italian appetizers
  • Casual dinner parties
  • Rustic Mediterranean-inspired meals