Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Using a serrated knife, slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick pieces, aiming for even slices that will toast uniformly.
Place the slices flat on a baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for even baking and crisping.
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with the minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Use a pastry brush to generously coat each slice with this fragrant oil mixture, ensuring every piece is well-coated for flavor and crispness.
If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary over the coated slices to add an aromatic, herbal touch.
Bake the crostini in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisply fragrant. Keep an eye on them around the 10-minute mark to prevent burning.
Once baked, remove the crostini from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly, about 2 minutes. This helps them stay crisp and prevents sogginess.
Finish by sprinkling with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, enhancing the flavor and adding a touch of sparkle.
Serve the crostini warm or at room temperature, either plain or topped with your favorite spreads, cheeses, or vegetables for a customizable snack or appetizer.
