Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Crostini
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
- Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp. Set aside to cool.
Whip the Ricotta
- In a food processor or with a hand mixer, combine ricotta, heavy cream (if using), lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
Assemble the Crostini
- Spread a generous layer of whipped ricotta on each toasted baguette slice.
- Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
Add the Finishing Touch
- Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired, for an herbal pop of flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the harmony of creamy, crunchy, and sweet in every bite.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Crostini):
- Calories: 80-100
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 3g
Suggestions:
- Pairing Ideas: Serve these crostini with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Prosecco, or even a sparkling rosé for an elegant touch.
- Presentation Tip: Arrange the crostini on a rustic wooden platter for a charming, farmhouse-chic look.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Whip the ricotta up to a day in advance and store in the fridge. Assemble the crostini just before serving to keep the bread crisp.
Variations:
- Savory Herb Crostini: Replace the honey with a drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar and add a touch of flaky sea salt.
- Nut-Free Crostini: Swap the nuts for sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a simpler version.
- Fruit-Topped Crostini: Add fresh figs, thinly sliced apples, or roasted grapes for a fruity twist.
Notes/Advice:
- Customizing Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey to taste—less for a milder sweetness, more for a dessert-like treat.
- Choosing Nuts: Opt for roasted nuts for added flavor, or lightly toast them at home in a dry skillet for a deeper crunch.
- Baguette Alternative: If you can’t find a baguette, try ciabatta or a rustic country loaf for similarly delicious results.