Italian Ricotta Crostini with Olives and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Introduction
This Italian Ricotta Crostini with Olives and Cherry Tomatoes recipe offers a delightful combination of rustic Ciabatta bread, smooth Ricotta cheese, and the fresh, vibrant flavors of tomatoes and olives. Ideal as an appetizer, this dish embodies the simplicity and richness of Italian cuisine. The Ricotta cheese, often referred to as Italian cottage cheese, brings a light, creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the crunch of toasted bread and the tangy zest of fresh ingredients like basil, thyme, and rosemary. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet meal, these crostini make a great starter, setting the tone for an evening of culinary exploration.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ciabatta bread | 1 loaf (cut into smaller slices) |
| Cherry tomatoes | 15 (halved) |
| Del Monte Black Olives | 25 (sliced) |
| Ricotta Cheese | 200 grams |
| Fresh Basil leaves | 15 (finely chopped, or substitute with oregano) |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Fresh Thyme leaves | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh Rosemary | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time
5 minutes
Cooking Time
15 minutes
Method
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Allow it to reach temperature while you prepare the bread.
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Prepare the Ciabatta Bread: Cut the Ciabatta bread into smaller slices and arrange them on a greased baking tray. Drizzle with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil to enhance flavor and ensure a crisp finish.
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Toast the Bread: Place the bread slices in the oven on the middle rack for 7-8 minutes, or until the edges of the bread turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the bread to prevent over-toasting.
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Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: While the bread is toasting, take the Ricotta cheese and crumble it in a bowl. Add the finely chopped basil leaves (or oregano if you prefer), thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine the flavors into the creamy cheese.
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Assemble the Crostini: Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven and spread the Ricotta mixture evenly across each slice. Be sure to cover each piece generously with the cheese.
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Add the Toppings: Next, arrange the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Del Monte black olives on top of the Ricotta-covered bread. This adds both color and depth to the dish, making it as visually appealing as it is flavorful.
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Optional Final Touch: For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle some Del Monte tomato ketchup over the crostini. The sweet and tangy notes will complement the richness of the Ricotta.
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Serve and Enjoy: These Italian Ricotta Crostini with Olives and Cherry Tomatoes are ready to be served immediately. Pair them with your favorite drinks or other dishes like Desi Style Masala Pasta or Gulkand Panna Cotta for a full Indo-Italian fusion experience.
Allergen Information
This dish contains dairy (Ricotta cheese), gluten (Ciabatta bread), and olives. It is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivities, or an olive allergy.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian – Suitable for vegetarians, as no meat or poultry is used in the recipe.
- Gluten – Contains gluten from the Ciabatta bread. Consider gluten-free bread alternatives if necessary.
Advice
- Ricotta Variations: If you’re looking to change things up, feel free to use other types of cheese like cream cheese or goat cheese in place of Ricotta for a different texture and taste.
- Herb Variations: While basil, thyme, and rosemary are classic choices, you can experiment with other herbs like parsley, oregano, or even a touch of garlic for a bolder flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: For an added flair, consider garnishing with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
Conclusion
Italian Ricotta Crostini with Olives and Cherry Tomatoes is a perfect blend of crunchy, creamy, and fresh, making it a fantastic appetizer for any gathering or casual meal. The dish showcases the elegance of Italian cuisine with simple ingredients and bold flavors. It’s a dish that is sure to impress, whether you serve it at a party, as a snack, or as part of a larger Indo-Italian fusion meal. Enjoy the vibrant taste of Italy, one bite at a time!
