Ninita’s Cheesy Olive Crostini (a.k.a. Birdie Sandwiches!)
When I was a teacher — and later a reading specialist for the district — I spent years traveling between schools all across Palm Beach County giving professional development to teachers. Along the way, I met some of the most amazing educators and principals. One of my absolute favorites was Nina Lant, though I always called her Ninita — she’s tiny, adorable, and full of personality!
One day, Ninita shared a recipe she swore was the best appetizer ever. She called them her “Birdie Sandwiches,” and told me I had to make them. The first time I did, I was blown away. I’ve been obsessed ever since!
It’s ridiculous how good these little crostini are — and they only take five minutes to make. You probably already have everything in your pantry, which makes them perfect for last-minute entertaining.
If you love my other crowd-pleasing appetizers like Creamy Jalapeno Dip, and Chili Cheese Dip, Christmas Dip, Honey Fig Dip you’ll definitely want to add this one to your list. They’re warm, cheesy, crispy, and absolutely addictive — the kind of party bite everyone talks about later. If you’re look for the best Holiday Side Dishes, or Holiday Desserts, or even Holiday Appetizers. I got them all lined up and ready for you just click the text!
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👝 How to Store Leftovers
Store in an airtight container for 3-5 days
🕯️ Pro Tips
Make-Ahead Friendly: Mix the topping up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use. Just assemble and broil when guests arrive.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly. Freshly grated cheddar makes these even creamier.
Want Extra Flavor? Add a tiny sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat!
🤔 Common Questions
You can! Green olives give it a slightly saltier, tangier flavor. I personally love the balance of mild black olives with the sharp cheddar, but it’s great either way.
The mayo is what binds the mixture together. You can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt, but the texture will be slightly different.
Ninita’s Cheesy Olive Crostini (a.k.a. Birdie Sandwiches!)
Ingredients
- 1 baguette or loaf of Italian bread sliced into 1-inch rounds
- Butter for spreading
- Garlic powder to taste (for toasting and the mix)
- ½ cup mayonnaise just enough to bind — not a dip!
- 4.25 oz can chopped black ripe olives (Lindsay brand recommended)
- 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup finely diced red onion
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt optional — go light since the cheese and olives add saltiness
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Slice bread into 1-inch rounds and lightly butter each slice. Sprinkle with a touch of garlic powder.
- Toast in the oven for about 1 minute, just until slightly crisp on top (don’t overdo it — they’ll bake again later).
- Mix the topping: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped black olives, shredded cheddar, diced red onion, pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Spread generously over each toasted slice — about 1 to 1½ tablespoons per crostini, edge to edge.
- Broil for a few minutes until the tops are bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve immediately and watch them disappear!
