Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta is a vibrant and flavorful appetizer that combines fresh, juicy tomatoes, creamy ricotta, and the bold, aromatic flavor of pesto, all served on crispy, toasted crostini. The dish is a perfect balance of textures—the crunch of the crostini, the smoothness of the ricotta, and the rich, herbaceous pesto, topped off with the refreshing burst of ripe tomatoes. This elegant appetizer is ideal for parties, gatherings, or even as a light snack.
The inspiration behind Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta came from the desire to create a simple yet sophisticated appetizer using fresh ingredients that are packed with flavor. The combination of ricotta and pesto complements the tangy sweetness of the tomatoes, making each bite a delightful treat for the senses.
What I love most about this dish is how easily it comes together, yet it feels indulgent and special. The ricotta adds a creamy base that balances the boldness of the pesto, while the tomatoes provide a burst of freshness. You can serve these crostini as a standalone appetizer or as part of a larger spread. They’re perfect for any occasion, offering a deliciously refreshing bite that’s sure to impress guests!
Perfect for:
- Appetizer or snack
- Party platters
- Summer gatherings
- Brunch
- Pesto and tomato lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta will become your go-to appetizer:
- Flavorful Harmony: The sweet, juicy tomatoes pair perfectly with the creamy ricotta and savory pesto.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to prepare and takes only 20 minutes to make.
- Light and Fresh: The fresh ingredients create a light yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for warm weather.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The vibrant colors and bold flavors make this a hit at any gathering.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the pesto and ricotta mixture in advance, saving you time on the day of serving.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with additional toppings like olives, capers, or fresh herbs.
- Perfect Texture: The crispy crostini base provides the perfect crunch to complement the creamy and juicy toppings.
- Healthy and Delicious: A balanced combination of fresh vegetables and dairy for a satisfying, nutrient-rich bite.
- Versatile Dish: These crostinis work equally well as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples and fresh produce, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 10g
Ingredients
For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
The Ricotta Pesto Spread:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tomato Topping:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Optional Garnish:
- Balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil leaves
Ingredient Highlights
- Ricotta Cheese: Adds a creamy, mild base for the crostini.
- Pesto: Provides a burst of herbaceous, garlicky flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Bring a burst of sweetness and freshness to each bite.
- Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a tangy finish that elevates the flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Crostini:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Baguette: Lay the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
- Toast the Crostini: Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Ricotta Pesto Spread:
- Mix Ricotta and Pesto: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese and pesto. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Tomato Topping:
- Season the Tomatoes: In a small bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh basil.
Assemble the Crostini:
- Spread Ricotta Pesto Mixture: Spoon a generous amount of the ricotta pesto mixture onto each toasted crostini.
- Top with Tomatoes: Place a few seasoned tomato halves on top of each crostini.
Serve:
- Garnish and Drizzle: Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.
How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta:
- As a Party Appetizer: Perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to formal events.
- On a Charcuterie Board: Add these crostinis alongside cheeses, olives, and cured meats for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.
- For Brunch: Serve with a side of mixed greens for a light, flavorful meal.
- As a Snack: Enjoy them as a quick, satisfying snack throughout the day.
- For Casual Gatherings: Ideal for serving at picnics or outdoor barbecues.
- With a Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a simple salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.
- For Meatless Meals: Perfect for a light vegetarian meal when served with a side of roasted vegetables.
- With Extra Toppings: Experiment by adding sliced olives, capers, or feta cheese for extra flavor.
- For a Light Dinner: Serve with a side of vegetable soup or pasta for a complete meal.
Additional Tips
- Choose Fresh Bread: Use a hearty, crusty bread like baguette or ciabatta for the base. Slice it thin for a crisp texture without being too hard to bite into.
- Grill the Bread: Toast the bread slices on a grill for a smoky flavor that complements the freshness of the tomatoes and pesto.
- Use Heirloom Tomatoes: For vibrant color and sweet, complex flavor, try using heirloom tomatoes instead of regular ones.
- Customize the Pesto: Experiment with different types of nuts in your pesto, like walnuts or almonds, to give it a unique flavor twist.
- Add a Zest of Lemon: A light squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the tomatoes can enhance their flavor and bring out the freshness.
- Use Whole Milk Ricotta: For a creamier, richer taste, opt for whole milk ricotta instead of part-skim.
- Season with Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the tomatoes before serving can elevate the overall flavor.
- Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that pairs wonderfully with the creamy ricotta.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish your crostini with fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for an extra layer of aromatic flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Tomato crostini are best served fresh. If you need to prepare ahead, keep components separate and assemble just before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Roasted Tomato Crostini: Roast the tomatoes in the oven for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
- Spicy Pesto Crostini: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a spicy kick.
- Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Crostini: Swap ricotta for goat cheese and top with sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy variation.
- Avocado Crostini: Add a layer of mashed avocado on the crostini before the ricotta pesto for extra creaminess.
- Vegan Version: Use a plant-based ricotta alternative and a vegan pesto for a dairy-free version.
Special Equipment
- Baking Sheet – For toasting the baguette slices.
- Oven – To bake the crostini to perfection.
- Food Processor – For blending the pesto ingredients smoothly.
- Knife – For slicing the tomatoes and baguette.
- Cutting Board – To chop ingredients safely and efficiently.
- Tongs – For handling the hot crostini.
- Small Bowls – To serve pesto, ricotta, and other toppings.
- Pastry Brush – For spreading olive oil on the baguette slices before toasting.
- Grater – If you plan to add freshly grated Parmesan to the pesto or ricotta.
- Serving Platter – To present the finished crostini beautifully.
FAQ Section
- Can I use store-bought crostini?
Yes, pre-made crostini can save time if you’re in a hurry. - How long do these crostinis stay crispy?
The crostini will stay crispy for about 30 minutes, but it’s best to assemble them shortly before serving. - Can I make the pesto in advance?
Yes, pesto can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. - What can I substitute for ricotta?
Cream cheese, goat cheese, or mascarpone can be used as substitutes for ricotta. - Can I freeze these crostinis?
The crostini can be frozen before adding the toppings, but it’s best to assemble and serve them fresh. - How can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread or crackers as the base for the crostini. - Can I use other tomatoes?
Any small, firm tomatoes will work, but cherry tomatoes are the best for their sweetness and size. - Can I add meat?
Yes, you can add prosciutto or cooked beef bacon on top for a savory, meaty addition. - How do I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the crostini separately from the toppings to keep the bread crispy. - Can I add cheese on top?
Yes, grated Parmesan or mozzarella can be sprinkled on top for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta is an elegant, flavorful appetizer that brings together the freshness of ripe tomatoes, the creaminess of ricotta cheese, and the bold, herbal flavors of pesto. The crunchy crostini serves as the perfect base, adding texture and a satisfying bite to this delightful dish.
To prepare, simply toast slices of baguette, spread with a layer of creamy ricotta, top with fresh tomato slices, and drizzle with vibrant pesto. This dish is perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a light snack. It’s also easy to customize—add a sprinkle of Parmesan, a dash of balsamic glaze, or a few fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
I can’t wait to see your Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see how you make this recipe your own!