Description
Whipped Ricotta Crostini is a simple yet elegant appetizer featuring creamy, airy ricotta cheese flavored with lemon juice and olive oil, spread on grilled baguette slices. Topped with honey, lemon zest, fresh thyme, and flaky sea salt, this recipe balances rich and refreshing flavors perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Ricotta Spread
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
For Serving
- Honey, for drizzling
- Lemon zest, for garnish
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
- Flaky sea salt, for finishing
- Grilled baguette or crostini slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Whipped Ricotta: In a food processor or using a hand mixer, blend the ricotta cheese with extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and sea salt until smooth and creamy. This whipping step transforms the ricotta into a light, airy spread.
- Grill the Bread: Slice the baguette into thin pieces and grill or toast until crispy and slightly browned. This crispy base will hold the creamy ricotta perfectly.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread a generous amount of the whipped ricotta onto each grilled baguette slice.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle honey over the ricotta, then sprinkle lemon zest, fresh thyme leaves, and a pinch of flaky sea salt on each crostini to add layers of flavor and texture.
- Serve: Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and serve immediately to enjoy the creamy, fresh, and slightly sweet bites.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture; low-fat versions may be less smooth.
- If you don’t have a food processor, a hand mixer or vigorous whisking can also achieve a whipped consistency.
- Grilling the baguette slices over a grill pan or in the oven under the broiler works equally well.
- Adjust honey and lemon zest quantity based on your preference for sweetness and tartness.
- Fresh thyme can be substituted with other fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for different flavor profiles.
Keywords: whipped ricotta, crostini, appetizer, grilled bread, ricotta cheese, Italian appetizer, easy party food