Pea Bruschetta Recipe (Pea Crostini) Recipe
Introduction
Pea bruschetta is a fresh and vibrant twist on the classic Italian appetizer. Combining sweet peas, parmesan, and lemon zest on toasted ciabatta, it’s perfect for a light snack or elegant starter.

Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Small handful of pea shoots (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 clove garlic (plus 1/2 clove for rubbing on bread)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slices ciabatta bread
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for toasting bread)
- Extra parmesan (for garnish)
- Lemon zest (for garnish)
- Black pepper (for garnish)
- Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the frozen peas, pea shoots (if using), grated parmesan, 3 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, half a clove of garlic, salt, and pepper into a food processor. Use the pulse button to chop and combine until you have a rough paste. Set aside.
- Step 2: Preheat your broiler or grill. Drizzle the ciabatta slices with 2 tablespoons olive oil and toast them for 2–3 minutes on each side until crisp and golden brown.
- Step 3: While the toast is still warm, rub each slice lightly with the remaining half clove of garlic to infuse flavor.
- Step 4: Spread the pea topping evenly over the toasted bread slices.
- Step 5: Add extra parmesan, lemon zest, and pea shoots on top of each bruschetta. Finish by drizzling with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkling with fresh black pepper.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh peas in season for a sweeter, fresher flavor.
- Replace pea shoots with fresh mint or basil for a different herbaceous note.
- For extra texture, toast the bread slightly longer or use a rustic baguette instead of ciabatta.
Storage
Best enjoyed fresh, but leftover pea topping can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Re-toast bread right before serving for best results. Assembled bruschetta is not recommended for storing as the bread will become soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used and will provide a sweeter, more vibrant flavor. Simply blanch them briefly before processing.
What can I substitute if I don’t have parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good substitutes. For a dairy-free option, you can omit the cheese or use a plant-based parmesan alternative.
PrintPea Bruschetta Recipe (Pea Crostini) Recipe
This Pea Bruschetta Recipe offers a fresh and vibrant twist on the classic Italian appetizer. Featuring a creamy pea topping blended with Parmesan, garlic, and lemon, served on toasted ciabatta slices and garnished with pea shoots and a drizzle of olive oil, it’s a light and flavorful starter perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Pea Topping
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Small handful of pea shoots (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 clove garlic (save the other half for the bruschetta)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toasting
- 6 slices ciabatta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 clove garlic
For Garnish
- Additional pea shoots
- Fresh Parmesan
- Lemon zest
- Black pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Make the Pea Topping: Place the frozen peas, pea shoots (if using), grated Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, half a clove of garlic, salt, and pepper into a food processor. Use the pulse button to chop and combine all ingredients until you get a rough paste. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the toast.
- Preheat the Grill or Broiler: Set your oven grill or broiler to high heat to get ready for toasting the bread slices.
- Toast the Bread: Drizzle the ciabatta slices evenly with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Place them under the grill or broiler and toast each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they are crisp and golden brown.
- Garlic Rub on Toast: While the toasted bread is still warm, take the remaining half clove of garlic and lightly rub it over the surface of each slice. This infuses the bread with a subtle garlic flavor.
- Assemble the Bruschetta: Spread a generous layer of the pea topping evenly onto each slice of toasted bread.
- Garnish and Serve: Top each bruschetta with extra grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, additional pea shoots, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a final crack of black pepper. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Frozen peas work well for this recipe as they retain sweetness and are easy to pulse into a paste.
- Pea shoots are optional but add a fresh, herbal note and visual appeal.
- Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for both the topping and finishing drizzle to enhance flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially because Parmesan can be salty.
- Serve immediately after assembling to keep the bread crisp.
Keywords: pea bruschetta, pea crostini, Italian appetizer, spring appetizer, easy bruschetta recipe, vegetarian starter

