Traditionally a festive Italian appetiser, 'crostini' means 'little crusts' in Italian. Baguette-style bread is thinly sliced and lightly toasted and then topped, usually with pâté made from a variety of ingredients such as mushrooms, chicken livers, capers, garlic and ham.

In addition to bread, fried squares of polenta can be used. Crostini are generally

smaller than bruschetta and more likely to be served as a nibble with drinks as opposed to being served as a starter.