Best Easy Crostini di Baccalà Recipe

Salt cod spread on toasted bread is a beloved Veneto appetizer. This high protein mediterranean dish is a fresh, family-friendly starter that's perfect for holiday gatherings.

Cook 45 min Difficulty NORMAL 195 kcal
#mediterranean #high protein #family friendly #holiday appetizer
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • salt cod (baccalà), soaked and boneless 12 oz
  • baguette, sliced 12 pieces
  • whole milk 0.5 cup
  • russet potato, peeled and diced 0.5 cup
  • extra virgin olive oil 0.25 cup
  • garlic clove 1 piece
Seasonings/Sauce
  • fine sea salt 0.5 tsp
  • black pepper 0.25 tsp
  • fresh parsley, chopped 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 18 g 37%
Protein 17 g 35%
Fat 6 g 28%
Serving size 80g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast until golden, about 8 minutes. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Bring a saucepan of water to a simmer over medium heat. Add the soaked, boneless salt cod and potato. Simmer gently (do not boil) for 15–20 minutes until the cod flakes easily and potato is tender.

  3. 3

    Drain the cod and potato well. Remove any skin or bones from the cod, then transfer both to a mixing bowl.

  4. 4

    Mash the cod and potato together while still hot. Add the garlic clove (finely grated or pressed), then begin drizzling in olive oil and milk, alternating small pours, and mix vigorously to create a creamy, fluffy spread.

  5. 5

    Season the mixture with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Spread onto warm toasted baguette slices, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The star of this dish is salt cod (baccalà), which is soaked to reduce saltiness and provide its distinctive, savory flavor and flaky texture. It's the defining Venetian element that sets this crostini apart.
Q. How do I achieve the perfect texture for the salt cod spread?
To get a creamy, fluffy texture, mash the cod and potato together while they're still warm, and slowly alternate adding olive oil and milk while vigorously mixing. This process ensures the mixture emulsifies and prevents a dry or lumpy spread.
Q. What’s a crucial cooking tip for preparing the salt cod?
Simmer the soaked salt cod gently over medium heat; avoid a rolling boil, which can toughen the fish. Proper heat control keeps the cod tender and easy to flake for an ideal spread.
Q. How many calories and protein are in each serving?
Each serving is about 80g and provides 195 kcal, with 17g protein (about 35% of total calories), making it a high-protein Mediterranean appetizer suitable for balanced diets.
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