Description
A simple yet elegant appetizer featuring creamy whipped ricotta cheese spread on toasted baguette slices, perfect for entertaining or a light snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 baguette, sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- Optional toppings: Honey, fresh herbs (like chives or basil), flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Lightly brush both sides of the bread slices with olive oil.
- Bake for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until lightly golden brown and crisp. Set aside to cool slightly.
- While the crostini is toasting, prepare the whipped ricotta: In a food processor or using a hand mixer, combine the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and lemon zest.
- Process or beat until the mixture is light, airy, and completely smooth (about 2-3 minutes), scraping down the sides as needed.
- Season the whipped ricotta generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- To assemble, spread a generous dollop of the whipped ricotta onto each toasted crostini slice.
- Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil and top with your desired garnishes, such as a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of fresh herbs and flaky sea salt.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For the best texture, use high-quality, whole milk ricotta.
- If you don’t have a food processor, you can vigorously whisk the mixture by hand, though it will take longer to achieve the light, airy texture.
- Prepare the crostini ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. Assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Feel free to add minced garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking and Whipping
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired