Pin Ricotta Roasted Tomato Toasties deliver the perfect combination of creamy and crunchy textures with a burst of Mediterranean flavor. This easy appetizer or light lunch transforms simple ingredients into a dish that feels elegant yet effortless.
These toasties always disappear fast at my gatherings. The first time I made them, I could not believe how much the mellow ricotta and tangy roasted tomatoes sparkled together. Now I make these nearly every weekend.
Ingredients
- Sourdough or country bread: brings structure and crunch Choose a loaf that feels heavy and crusty for the best toast base
- Ricotta cheese: gives a creamy, mild richness I always seek out whole milk ricotta as it spreads more smoothly and tastes fresher
- Extra virgin olive oil: enhances both the ricotta mixture and the roasted tomatoes Go for the newest bottle for that peppery flavor
- Lemon zest: lifts the ricotta with brightness Choose unwaxed lemons with plump skin for better zest
- Cherry tomatoes: become jammy and sweet when roasted Hunt for deeply colored ones that feel firm to the touch
- Balsamic vinegar: adds acidity and complexity Shelf-aged or traditional balsamic syrup brings the most flavor
- Dried oregano or thyme: offers herbal aroma Pick organic dried herbs if possible or use fresh for a subtler touch
- Salt and black pepper: seasons every layer Taste as you go and do not be shy
- Fresh basil: finishes with garden-fresh notes Glossy fresh leaves make a big difference in appearance and flavor
- Flaky sea salt: adds delicate crunch and salinity Maldon or a similar brand makes a noticeable upgrade
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Set your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred Celsius Lay a sheet of parchment on a baking tray for easy cleanup Slice your cherry tomatoes and spread them cut side up on the tray
- Season and Roast:
- Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil and balsamic vinegar Sprinkle evenly with dried herbs salt and pepper Toss them gently to coat then arrange with cut sides facing up so they caramelize and wrinkle in the oven Place in the oven and roast for twenty to twenty five minutes until edges look slightly dark and insides are juicy
- Mix the Ricotta:
- While the tomatoes roast spoon ricotta into a mixing bowl Add olive oil lemon zest salt and pepper Use a spoon or spatula to blend until very smooth and creamy Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed
- Toast the Bread:
- While waiting on the tomatoes and ricotta place bread slices in a toaster or under a grill Toast until each side is deeply golden This helps the bread support the creamy topping without getting soggy
- Assemble the Toasties:
- Once the bread is ready and tomatoes are out of the oven spread a thick layer of ricotta mixture onto each toast using the back of a spoon to swirl it out
- Layer the Roasted Tomatoes:
- Pile the warm roasted tomatoes over the ricotta for maximum flavor and contrast
- Garnish and Serve:
- Shower with fresh torn basil and finish with a pinch of flaky salt and an extra flick of olive oil if you like Serve right away while the toast is crisp and the tomatoes are still warm
Pin Ricotta is my go-to ingredient here I adore the way it soaks up lemon zest and olive oil making every bite luxurious but never heavy The first time my niece tasted these toasties she said it felt like a mini vacation
Storage Tips
Store leftover assembled toasties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day The bread will soften so if possible keep components separate and assemble fresh When storing roasted tomatoes and ricotta separately keep each in a tightly sealed container Ricotta stays best for up to three days
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ricotta with whipped feta for a salty kick or use a dairy free ricotta substitute for a vegan version You can use gluten free bread for those with intolerances Try heirloom or grape tomatoes if cherry tomatoes are unavailable And for herbs fresh thyme or arugula lends a peppery twist
Serving Suggestions
These toasties shine as a party appetizer or a centerpiece for a simple lunch Pair with a leafy green salad or a bowl of chilled gazpacho For brunch serve alongside soft boiled eggs or a platter of marinated olives
Cultural and Historical Context
Tomato toast is a Mediterranean classic found everywhere from coastal Spain to Italy This recipe is inspired by my travels around southern Italy where locals pile ripe tomatoes on rustic bread with whatever cheese is on hand Roasting the tomatoes brings out the flavors reminiscent of a sunny Italian summer
Pin Ricotta Roasted Tomato Toasties bring a Mediterranean flair wherever you serve them. Try a batch this weekend and watch them vanish as quickly as they are made.
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I achieve crispy toast?
Toast bread slices until golden and firm, using a toaster or grill for best texture. Thick rustic bread works well.
- → Can I use other herbs instead of basil?
Yes, fresh thyme, arugula, or even parsley add their own unique flavors to this dish.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Simply substitute the bread with your preferred gluten-free variety to accommodate dietary needs.
- → How do I make this dairy-free?
Opt for a plant-based ricotta alternative to replace traditional dairy ricotta in the mixture.
- → What is the best way to roast tomatoes?
Roast halved cherry tomatoes at 400°F with olive oil and seasonings for 20–25 minutes, until caramelized.
- → Can I prepare this appetizer in advance?
Prepare all components ahead, then assemble and serve immediately to keep the toast crisp and tomatoes warm.