tagAlt.Black Cabbage Crostini

Tuscan Black Kale Crostini

A vibrant, nourishing starter featuring Tuscan black kale and rustic bread.
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    • ( Scored 5 on 1 reviews )

Nina:

I can't always find something delicious to do with my kale or black cabbage, but now I have a go-to appetiser dish that makes everyone happy, and best...

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tagAlt.Black Cabbage Crostini

Evoking comforting memories for many Italians, Tuscan Black Kale Crostini is a cherished wintertime classic that showcases the robust flavors of cavolo nero, also known as Tuscan black cabbage. This nutrient-rich green, famed for its deep, earthy taste, bursts with vitamin K, potassium, calcium, and vitamin C, making it a nutritional powerhouse for cold weather months.

Historically, black kale has been a staple in Tuscan cuisine since the Middle Ages, integral to iconic dishes like ribollita and winter soups. Its hearty leaves can withstand long cooking, infusing broths and stews with unmatched depth.

For a modern twist, consider pairing the sautéed kale with cooked cannellini beans or adding golden, crispy cubes of Italian pancetta. These additions not only amplify the flavor and aroma but also elevate the dish's protein and richness, making it a more substantial appetizer or light meal.

Deceptively simple to prepare—just toasted bread and sautéed greens—this crostini is a testament to the beauty of rustic Italian cooking. Whether as a hearty antipasto or a cozy snack, it’s guaranteed to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.

Ingredients

for 4 servings

Black Cabbage Crostini ingredients

  • Tuscan kale (Bunch) 500 grams
  • Water 1 liter
  • Salt 2 pinch
  • Tuscan Bread (Slices) 500
  • Garlic Cloves 1
  • Extra-virgin olive oil 1.5 table-spoon
  • Black Pepper as needed

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tagAlt.piave fresco forma intera

Piave DOP Fresco - Cheese

6kg

Balanced flavor with hints of milk and yogurt

View product
About Piave Dop Cheese

Preparation

for 4 servings

Step

1

Of 2

Blanch and Refresh the Black Kale

Gently wash the black kale leaves in lukewarm water to remove any grit or residue. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil, seasoning generously with salt. Submerge the kale and let it cook for about thirty minutes, allowing the leaves to soften and flavors to deepen.

Once tender, use a slotted spoon to transfer the kale into a bowl of cold water—this step halts the cooking process and helps preserve the vibrant green color. Reserve the hot cooking liquid for later use. When the kale is cool, thoroughly drain and pat the leaves dry.

Step

2

Of 2

Assemble the Crostini and Add Finishing Touches

Toast 4-6 slices of rustic or day-old country bread until golden and crispy. While still warm, rub each slice with a peeled garlic clove—leaving a delicate garlic aroma on the surface. Lay the prepared black kale onto each slice, then lightly drizzle with a bit of the reserved hot cooking water to moisten the bread and meld the flavors. Season with salt, freshly ground pepper, and a good-quality extra virgin olive oil.

For extra flavor and nutrition, try mixing in tender cannellini beans with the kale or garnishing each crostini with crisped Italian pancetta. Serve immediately at room temperature for the best texture and taste.

Tip: Experiment with toppings—aged pecorino shavings, a pinch of chili flakes, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze can make this classic even more special.

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Filippo Bartolotta

Filippo Bartolotta

tagAlt.piave fresco forma intera

Piave DOP Fresco - Cheese

6kg

Balanced flavor with hints of milk and yogurt

View product
About Piave Dop Cheese

...Great Italian Goodies!

tagAlt.piave fresco forma intera

Piave DOP Fresco - Cheese

6kg

Balanced flavor with hints of milk and yogurt

View product
About Piave Dop Cheese
tagAlt.piave fresco forma intera

Piave DOP Fresco - Cheese

6kg

Balanced flavor with hints of milk and yogurt

View product
About Piave Dop Cheese

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Reviews

Nina Wednesday 15th of April 2020

Quick appetiser

I can't always find something delicious to do with my kale or black cabbage, but now I have a go-to appetiser dish that makes everyone happy, and best of all, it's so healthy!

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