This Herbed Ricotta and Tomato Toast is a fresh and easy dish that brings loads of flavor. Creamy ricotta mixes with herbs, topped with juicy tomatoes on crunchy bread—yum!
It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a fun snack! I love making it on busy days; it’s so simple and always makes me smile when I take a bite. Try adding your favorite herbs!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Rustic Bread: Sourdough or ciabatta are perfect choices for a great crunch and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, any sturdy bread like whole grain or even a baguette will work well. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold up the toppings!
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese is key to the dish. If you want a lighter option, cottage cheese or goat cheese can be substituted, though they will change the flavor. I sometimes mix ricotta with a bit of cream cheese for extra richness.
Fresh Herbs: Basil, chives, and parsley bring freshness. Feel free to use any herbs on hand, like dill or oregano, for a unique twist. Dried herbs can work in a pinch but fresh is best for flavor.
Tomato: Ripe tomatoes add sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, use sun-dried tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a different flavor that’s still delicious.
Balsamic Glaze: This is optional, but it adds a nice touch of sweetness. If you don’t have it, a splash of balsamic vinegar works too, just be careful with the amount.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Toasted Bread?
Toasting the bread right is crucial for your Herbed Ricotta and Tomato Toast. Here’s how to do it just right:
- Use a toaster oven or regular oven for even cooking. Preheat it to about 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the bread about ¾ inch thick for the perfect crispy texture.
- Toast for about 5-7 minutes, checking frequently until the bread is golden and crisp.
- For extra flavor, brush lightly with olive oil before toasting.
Keep an eye on it; bread can go from golden to burnt quickly! This will make a big difference in the overall taste and mouthfeel of your toast.
How to Make Herbed Ricotta and Tomato Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Toast:
- 4 slices of rustic bread (such as sourdough or ciabatta)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as basil, chives, and parsley), finely chopped
- 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and serve. It’s quick and simple—perfect for a snack or light meal! Just toast your bread, mix the topping, and assemble everything!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Bread:
Start by toasting the slices of rustic bread in a toaster or oven until they are golden brown and crispy. You want them nice and crunchy to hold the toppings well.
2. Prepare the Herbed Ricotta:
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the finely chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well using a spoon or fork, until the herbs are nicely blended into the ricotta. This will be your flavorful spread!
3. Assemble the Toast:
Take each slice of toasted bread and spread a generous layer of the herbed ricotta mixture over the top. Make sure to cover the toast evenly so every bite is delicious!
4. Add the Tomato:
Place the slices of fresh tomato on top of the ricotta layer. You can overlap them a little for a pretty presentation and extra taste. The juicy tomatoes really freshen up the dish!
5. Drizzle and Season:
Now, it’s time to make it shine! Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over the toasts and add a sprinkle of salt and pepper if you like. This will enhance all the flavors.
6. Optional Balsamic Glaze:
If you want to add a little extra flavor, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze on top. This will add a nice sweet tang that complements the tomatoes wonderfully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the toasts immediately while they are still warm. Enjoy this tasty treat as a snack, appetizer, or light lunch!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you could substitute with cream cheese for a richer flavor or cottage cheese for a lighter option. Just adjust the seasoning as needed, since some cheeses can be saltier than others.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs instead—just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third the amount. Italian seasoning or a blend of dried basil and oregano works well. Alternatively, you can skip the herbs for a simpler but still delicious toast.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftover toast, it’s best to store the components separately. Place the herbed ricotta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and keep the toasted bread in a sealed bag at room temperature for up to one day. Reassemble just before eating to maintain crispiness!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
