Strawberry Basil Balsamic Toast

This strawberry basil balsamic toast is the perfect sweet and savory recipe when you’re searching for a quick summer bite bursting with flavor. It layers creamy goat cheese with juicy strawberries, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic drizzle over toasted sourdough.

This strawberry basil balsamic toast recipe brings together the best sweet and savory flavors in one bite. Ripe strawberries and balsamic vinegar are a classic combo, but paired with herby basil and creamy goat cheese? Next-level. And it takes only 10 minutes to make so you can whip it up anytime the craving hits.

If strawberries are your thing too, you’ll definitely want to try my strawberry spinach salad with goat cheese or this Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe as a sweet snack, this Strawberry Tres Leches Cake for an indulgent dessert, or my Homemade Strawberry Puree to spoon over oatmeal, yogurt, or even your morning pancakes.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Basil Balsamic Toast

• Only 5 simple ingredients you probably already have.
• A perfect balance of creamy, sweet, tangy, and herby.
• Takes 10 minutes or less to prep.
• Works for breakfast, brunch, or appetizers.
• A fresh and fun way to enjoy strawberries.

Ingredients Needed for Strawberry Basil Balsamic Toast

• Sourdough Bread. I love the tang and structure of sourdough, but you can use any bread you like. For appetizers, use baguette slices. For a meal, go full slice.
• Strawberries. Ripe, juicy strawberries sliced thin bring a burst of sweet freshness. You can even mix in raspberries or a few blackberries if you’d like.
• Goat Cheese. Soft goat cheese spreads beautifully on warm toast and brings the perfect creamy tang. Try a honey-lavender or herbed version for a fun twist.
• Fresh Basil. Only fresh basil will do here. Slice it into thin ribbons (aka chiffonade) to scatter on top. Adds bright, peppery freshness.
• Balsamic Vinegar. A light drizzle over the top gives a deliciously tangy finish. Balsamic glaze works too for a sweeter, thicker option.

Best Types of Bread for Strawberry Basil Balsamic Toast

The base of your toast matters almost as much as the toppings. For this recipe, you want something sturdy enough to hold creamy goat cheese and juicy strawberries without going soggy but still with a nice chew and flavor of its own. Here are some great options:

Sourdough. My personal favorite for this recipe. It’s tangy, hearty, and toasts up beautifully with a golden crust and soft center. Perfect for both meals and appetizers.

Baguette. Ideal if you’re serving this as a bite-sized appetizer. Slice it thin and toast to make the perfect crostini base.

Whole grain or multigrain bread. Adds earthy flavor and more texture. A great option if you want a healthier, fiber-rich version.

Gluten-free bread. Use your favorite gluten-free slices — just make sure it toasts well and doesn’t fall apart when topped.

Ciabatta. Chewy inside with a crackly crust, this Italian bread can make the toast feel a little fancier and works great sliced in half lengthwise.

Whichever you choose, make sure to toast it right before serving so it holds up and stays crisp under all those delicious toppings.

How I Make Strawberry Basil Balsamic Toast

(This is a quick overview of how I make strawberry basil balsamic toast, with tips along the way. You’ll find the full ingredients & instructions in the recipe card below.)

1. Toast the bread. I use a toaster oven set to medium. You want it golden and crisp, but still soft enough to bite through.
2. Spread the goat cheese. While the bread is warm, spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of goat cheese on each slice. Let it soften slightly to make this step easier.
3. Layer the strawberries. Arrange thinly sliced strawberries evenly over the goat cheese. I like to overlap them slightly for a pretty look.
4. Add basil. Stack a few fresh basil leaves, roll them up, and slice into ribbons. Sprinkle generously over the top.
5. Drizzle balsamic. Use a spoon to drizzle balsamic vinegar or glaze across the toast. Start light and add more if you like a tangy finish.

What to Serve with Strawberry Basil Balsamic Toast

This toast makes a perfect pair with a mixed greens salad, a sparkling drink, or a bowl of tomato soup. For brunch, serve it with eggs, yogurt, or a fresh fruit platter. It’s also great as an appetizer alongside a cheese board.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• Switch up the cheese. Not a fan of goat cheese? Swap it out for ricotta if you prefer something milder and creamier, or use whipped feta for a tangy punch. Burrata is also a luxurious alternative for a more decadent twist.
• Add some greens. Microgreens or baby arugula add a peppery bite and boost the nutrition. Lay a few leaves on top of the cheese before layering the strawberries.
• Upgrade the balsamic. Try a fruit-infused balsamic like fig or raspberry for extra depth. Balsamic glaze adds more sweetness and richness with less liquid.
• Bring the heat. A drizzle of hot honey takes this toast in a bold, sweet-spicy direction. Add crushed red pepper flakes for even more kick.
• Add crunch. Top it off with crushed pistachios, slivered almonds, or even sunflower seeds for added texture.
• Play with the fruit. Add a few raspberries, thin slices of peach, or even grilled figs for seasonal variety.

This strawberry basil balsamic toast recipe is endlessly flexible — you can lean savory, sweet, spicy, or even fruity depending on your mood and what you have in the kitchen.

Storing and Make-Ahead Tips

This toast is best fresh, but you can prep parts ahead. Slice the strawberries and basil a few hours early and keep them in separate containers in the fridge. Toast and assemble right before serving for best texture.

FAQs About Strawberry Basil Balsamic Toast

More Strawberry Recipes

• Strawberry Dubai Chocolate Cup
• Strawberry Tres Leches Cake
• Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
• Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
• Strawberry Crunch Cake
• Strawberry Puree Easy Homemade Recipe

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