Whipped Ricotta Crostini
Whether you’re putting together a last-minute appetizer for a dinner party or just want something a little extra for your weekend snack board, whipped ricotta crostini are the answer.
Equipment
- Food Processor or Blender
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Pastry Brush
- Spatula or spoon
- Zester or microplane (optional)
Ingredients
For the Whipped Ricotta
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Crostini
- 1 baguette sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for brushing
- A pinch of sea salt
Optional Toppings (choose your favorites)
- Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary
- Cherry tomatoes halved
- Honey or hot honey drizzle
- Roasted or fresh figs sliced
- Toasted nuts walnuts, pistachios, or almonds
- Lemon zest
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Whipped Ricotta
- Place the ricotta cheese, olive oil, Parmesan, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper into your food processor or blender.
- Blend on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 1–2 minutes.
- Pro tip: Stop and scrape down the sides halfway through to make sure everything blends evenly. If the ricotta feels too thick, add a teaspoon of water or more olive oil to loosen it slightly.
Step 2: Slice and Toast the Baguette
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides, then sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top.
- Toast in the oven for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- Pro tip: Keep an eye on the bread during the last few minutes—it can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly!
Step 3: Assemble the Crostini
- Let the toasted baguette slices cool for a minute or two.
- Using a small spoon or spatula, generously spread the whipped ricotta onto each slice.
- Add your favorite toppings—whether that’s fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, honey, or nuts.
Step 4: Final Touches and Serve
- For an extra pop of flavor, sprinkle a little lemon zest or more freshly ground pepper on top.
- Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and enjoy immediately!
- Pro tip: If you’re making these ahead, keep the whipped ricotta refrigerated and toast the bread just before serving to keep it crisp.
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per 2 Crostini Serving)
- Calories: 180–220 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1–3g
- Calcium: ~10% DV