Golden, toasted slices of artisan bread are topped with a creamy mixture of herbed ricotta and bright cherry tomatoes dressed in a tangy balsamic blend. This crostini recipe strikes the perfect balance between freshness and richness, making it an ideal appetizer for gatherings, brunches, or a quick and elegant snack at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s fast and easy to prepare, with simple steps and minimal cooking involved.

• The flavors are fresh, vibrant, and perfect for warmer seasons or any time you want something light yet satisfying.

• It makes a beautiful presentation that’s ideal for entertaining guests.

• Versatile ingredients mean you can easily adjust it to your taste preferences or seasonal availability.

• Great for make-ahead components—just assemble when ready to serve.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (preferably whole milk for creaminess)

• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar (regular balsamic can be used as an alternative)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 6 to 8 slices of artisan or whole grain bread (such as ciabatta, sourdough, or rustic baguette), about ½-inch thick

Directions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped basil, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Stir well until fully blended and creamy. Set aside.

2. In a separate bowl, toss the halved grape or cherry tomatoes with olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes so the flavors can develop.

3. Toast the bread slices until golden brown and crisp. You can do this using a toaster, under a broiler, or in a skillet with a touch of olive oil for extra flavor.

4. Spread a generous layer of the herbed ricotta mixture over each toasted bread slice.

5. Spoon the marinated tomatoes over the ricotta layer. Make sure to include some of the juices for added flavor, but don’t oversaturate the bread.

6. Sprinkle each crostini with freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. Serve immediately while the bread is still crisp.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 4 to 6 people (makes about 8 crostini)

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Substitute goat cheese or whipped feta for a tangier base.

• Use different herbs such as thyme, oregano, or chives to change the flavor profile.

• Swap grape tomatoes for heirloom or Roma tomatoes, finely diced.

• Add a thin layer of pesto beneath the ricotta for a basil-forward flavor.

• Use multigrain or gluten-free bread to suit dietary needs.

• Top with crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of honey for extra contrast.

• Add sliced avocado or smoked salmon for a heartier bite.

• Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or crumbled feta for a different finish.

Storage/Reheating

• Store the ricotta mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Keep the tomato topping in a separate container in the fridge for 1 to 2 days.

• Toast and assemble crostini just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

• Do not refrigerate fully assembled crostini; they will lose texture.

• To refresh the bread, lightly toast again before assembling if made ahead.

FAQs

How far in advance can I prepare the ingredients?

You can make the ricotta spread and tomato topping up to two days ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Toast and assemble the crostini just before serving.

Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, you can use whipped feta, goat cheese, or even mascarpone for a creamier and richer base.

What kind of bread is best for crostini?

A hearty artisan loaf like sourdough, ciabatta, or a rustic baguette is best. These hold up well to toppings without becoming soggy.

Do I have to use fresh herbs?

Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but in a pinch, you can use dried herbs. Use about one-third the amount if substituting dried for fresh.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use your favorite gluten-free bread and toast it the same way. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, it is fully vegetarian as long as the Parmesan cheese is certified vegetarian (some contain animal rennet).

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Toast the bread well and add the toppings right before serving. Also, drain excess liquid from the tomato mixture if it sits too long.

What can I serve with these crostini?

They pair well with light salads, charcuterie boards, or as an appetizer before pasta or grilled entrees.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes, smoked salmon or cooked shrimp are great options if you’d like to include a protein.

What can I use instead of white balsamic vinegar?

You can use regular balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even lemon juice for acidity. Each will offer a slightly different flavor.

Conclusion

Herbed ricotta and tomato crostini offer a fresh, flavorful, and visually appealing dish that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to eat. With crisp toast, creamy ricotta, and juicy tomatoes, every bite delivers a balance of texture and taste. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself to a light meal, this recipe brings elegance and flavor with minimal effort.