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Green Olive and Goat Cheese Crostini

These green olive and goat's cheese crostini are a sophisticated yet simple vegetarian appetiser, perfect for summer garden parties or as a light starter for a dinner party. The recipe brings together the salty punch of brine-cured olives with the creamy tang of soft goat's cheese, all brightened by fragrant orange zest and toasted fennel seeds. Using garlic chives adds a delicate savoury note that complements the fresh thyme without overpowering the other Mediterranean flavours.

As a versatile snack, this dish is ideal for those who enjoy homemade entertaining with minimal fuss. The olive topping can be prepared up to two days in advance, making it a stress-free option for busy hosts. Simply grill the baguette slices until golden and top with the cheese just before serving to ensure a delightful contrast between the crisp bread and the meltingly soft topping.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Green Olive and Goat Cheese Crostini

  • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds

  • 140g (lightly packed) chopped pitted imported brine-cured green olives

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil plus additional for brushing

  • 1 tablespoon thinly sliced garlic chives or 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons finely grated orange peel

  • 16 1/2-inch-thick diagonal slices baguette

  • 30g log soft fresh goat cheese (cut into 16 rounds)

How to make Green Olive and Goat Cheese Crostini

Toast fennel seeds in small skillet over medium-high heat until fragrant, shaking skillet occasionally, about 1 minute. Transfer seeds to medium bowl. Add olives, 2 tablespoons oil, garlic chives, orange juice, thyme, and orange peel to bowl and toss to blend. Season to taste with salt and pepper. DO AHEAD: Can be made 2 days ahead. Cover; chill. Bring to room temperature before using.

Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat). Brush both sides of bread slices with oil. Grill on 1 side until golden, about 1 minute. Turn bread over; immediately top each slice with 1 cheese round. Grill until bottoms are golden and cheese softens slightly, about 1 minute.

Transfer crostini to platter. Spoon olive mixture over and sprinkle with pepper.

Garlic chives, also known as Chinese chives, can be found at Asian markets.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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