Description
This Ricotta Crostini with Honey is a delightful appetizer featuring crispy toasted baguette slices topped with light, whipped ricotta cheese, fragrant thyme, crunchy toasted pistachios, and a drizzle of sweet honey. Perfect for entertaining or a simple, elegant snack, this recipe combines creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors for a balanced bite.
Ingredients
Crostini
- 1 French or sourdough baguette, sliced 1/2 inch thick
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Whipped Ricotta Topping
- 1.5 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 3 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp finely chopped fresh thyme
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Garnish
- 3 tbsp roughly chopped toasted pistachios
- 2 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet to ensure even toasting.
- Brush with Olive Oil and Season: Brush each side of the baguette slices with olive oil, then sprinkle both sides with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper for balanced seasoning.
- Bake the Crostini: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the slices for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare Whipped Ricotta: In a food processor, combine the ricotta cheese, extra-virgin olive oil, finely chopped fresh thyme, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Whip the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it becomes light, creamy, and fluffy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble Crostini: Spread a generous amount of the whipped ricotta mixture onto each cooled crostini, ensuring an even layer for maximum flavor.
- Add Garnishes: Sprinkle the chopped toasted pistachios on top of the ricotta, then finish by drizzling honey over each crostini for a perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh thyme with other fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Use good quality whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
- To toast pistachios, spread them on a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- Serve immediately after assembling to keep crostini crisp.
- Can be prepped ahead except for assembling; store toasted bread and whipped ricotta separately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
