Herbed Ricotta and Tomato Crostini
Herbed Ricotta and Tomato Crostini is a light and elegant appetizer featuring toasted artisan bread topped with creamy ricotta blended with fresh herbs, juicy marinated cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Perfect for brunch, entertaining, or a quick snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 crostini (serves 4–6)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook / Assembled
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk recommended)
- 1 Tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp white balsamic vinegar (or regular balsamic)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 6–8 slices artisan bread (ciabatta, sourdough, or baguette), ½-inch thick
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, basil, parsley, and lemon juice until creamy. Set aside.
- In another bowl, toss halved tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Let marinate 5–10 minutes.
- Toast bread slices until golden and crisp (toaster, broiler, or skillet with olive oil).
- Spread herbed ricotta on each toast slice.
- Spoon marinated tomatoes over ricotta, adding a little juice but not too much to prevent sogginess.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Notes
- Prepare ricotta and tomato toppings in advance but assemble just before serving.
- Substitute goat cheese, feta, or mascarpone for ricotta for flavor variation.
- Add pesto, avocado, or smoked salmon for a heartier bite.
- Use gluten-free bread if needed.
- Top with honey or chili flakes for sweet-heat contrast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crostini
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
