Tomato crostini with pesto and ricotta is a delightful appetizer that combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes, the aromatic flavor of pesto, and the creamy texture of ricotta cheese. This dish is perfect for summer parties, light lunches, or as an elegant starter for a dinner gathering. The vibrant colors and robust flavors make it a visually appealing and delicious choice that is sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive into how to prepare this wonderful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick slices
- 2 cups (480ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup (240ml) ricotta cheese
- ½ cup (120ml) fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoon (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and halved
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Preparation
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush each slice lightly with extra virgin olive oil.
Step 2:
Bake the baguette slices in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Step 3:
Once the bread slices are cool enough to handle, rub each slice with the cut side of the garlic cloves. This will infuse the crostini with a subtle garlic flavor.
Step 4:
Spread a generous spoonful of ricotta cheese onto each crostini. Make sure to cover the entire surface for a rich and creamy base.
Step 5:
Top the ricotta with a spoonful of fresh basil pesto. Spread it evenly over the cheese layer.
Step 6:
Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the pesto. Season with a pinch of salt and a grind of fresh black pepper. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Cooking Note
Using high-quality ingredients will make a significant difference in the flavor of your tomato crostini. Opt for ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil pesto, and creamy ricotta cheese. If you have time, consider making your own pesto for an even fresher taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these tomato crostini with pesto and ricotta as an appetizer or a light snack. They pair wonderfully with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh green salad or a bowl of soup.
Tips
- If you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, finely mince the garlic and mix it with the olive oil before brushing it onto the bread slices.
- For an added layer of flavor, you can drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top of the tomatoes.
- To make homemade pesto, blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts or walnuts, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- These crostini are best served fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approx. 2 crostini):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
Conclusion
Tomato crostini with pesto and ricotta is a simple yet elegant appetizer that showcases the best of fresh, flavorful ingredients. The combination of creamy ricotta, aromatic pesto, and juicy tomatoes atop crispy baguette slices creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. This dish is perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a light snack. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering, and watch your guests savor every delicious bite. Enjoy!
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Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 crostini
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This tomato crostini with pesto and ricotta recipe is a delightful and easy appetizer perfect for any occasion. Combining juicy tomatoes, flavorful pesto, and creamy ricotta on toasted baguette slices, these crostini are sure to impress your guests. Ideal for parties, gatherings, or a quick snack.
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 200 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 150 g ricotta cheese
- 100 g pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
- Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Spread a layer of ricotta cheese on each toasted baguette slice.
- Top with a spoonful of pesto.
- Place halved cherry tomatoes on top of the pesto.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can rub a garlic clove on the toasted baguette slices before adding the toppings.
- Use homemade or store-bought pesto according to your preference.
- Serve immediately to ensure the baguette remains crisp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Toasted
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crostini
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
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