Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta

If you’re looking for a delightful appetizer that will impress your guests, look no further than this Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta! This dish is not only easy to make but also bursting with fresh flavors. The creamy ricotta paired with vibrant pesto and juicy tomatoes makes it a favorite among friends and family. Perfect for gatherings, brunches, or even just a cozy night in, these crostinis are sure to steal the show!

What truly makes this recipe special is its versatility. You can whip it up for Mother’s Day celebrations or serve it during those sunny spring and summer afternoons. Let me take you through why you’ll absolutely love making these Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning appetizer that looks fancy but is incredibly straightforward.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the fresh flavors and fun presentation of these crostinis.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the pesto and ricotta mixture ahead of time, making assembly a breeze when guests arrive.
• Colorful Presentation: The beautiful layers of color from the tomatoes, olives, and turkey roses make this dish as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen or can easily find at your local market. Let’s gather what we need for our delicious Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta!

For the Crostini

• rustic French bread (enough for 10 slices)
• 3 tbsp. olive oil (and a little more for brushing the crostini)
• garlic powder (a nice sprinkle)

For the Pesto

• 2 oz. fresh basil
• 5 tbsp. pepitas
• 2 tsp. white balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp. grated parmesan

For Topping

• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup pitted Castelvetrano olives
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes
• 5 slices turkey slices

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! You can easily adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the cheese: If you’re not a fan of ricotta, try using cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like cilantro or parsley in your pesto for a unique twist.
• Add more veggies: Consider adding bell peppers or arugula on top for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Change up the bread: Instead of French bread, use whole grain or gluten-free options to suit your dietary needs.

How to Make Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta

Step 1: Prepare the Pesto

First, remove any tiny leaves from your fresh basil—these will be perfect for garnishing later! In your food processor, combine 2 oz. of fresh basil, 5 tbsp. of pepitas, 3 tbsp. of olive oil, 2 tsp. of white balsamic vinegar, and 2 tbsp. of grated parmesan cheese. Blend everything together until smooth and creamy; this should take about 30 seconds on purée setting. You’ll end up with about ½ cup of delicious homemade pesto!

Step 2: Mix with Ricotta

In a mixing bowl, gently stir together your freshly made pesto and ½ cup of ricotta cheese until they are well combined. This creamy mixture will be the star spread of your crostini!

Step 3: Prepare Toppings

Slice your pitted Castelvetrano olives into rings and cut your cherry tomatoes into quarters. These colorful toppings will add both flavor and visual appeal.

Step 4: Create Turkey Roses

Time to get creative! Take one slice from your turkey package and cut it in half using kitchen scissors. Fold each half over itself and carefully roll them into rose shapes—this fun presentation adds an elegant touch to your appetizers! Repeat until you have made all ten turkey roses.

Step 5: Toast the Bread

Slice your rustic French bread into ten equal pieces. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil and sprinkle them with garlic powder for an added flavor kick! Toast them in an oven preheated to 450°F for about 7-10 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy—this step creates a lovely base for all those toppings.

Step 6: Assemble Your Crostinis

Now comes the fun part! Spread a generous amount of your pesto-ricotta mixture onto each toasted slice of bread. Next, carefully spoon some chopped tomatoes and sliced olives on top before finishing each crostini with one of those lovely turkey roses you created earlier. Garnish each one with two small basil leaves for that perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it—your gorgeous Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta is ready to be enjoyed! Serve them at room temperature or slightly warm, and watch as they disappear from the platter in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta

Creating the perfect crostini is all about attention to detail, and these tips will help you shine in the kitchen!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and quality ricotta will enhance the flavors of your crostini, making each bite a delightful experience.
• Don’t skip toasting the bread – Toasting adds a satisfying crunch and prevents the bread from becoming soggy when topped with pesto and other ingredients.
• Experiment with toppings – Feel free to mix and match your favorite toppings! Instead of turkey slices, try adding roasted red peppers or marinated artichokes for a unique twist.
• Make ahead for convenience – You can prepare the pesto and ricotta mixture a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to save time when you’re ready to serve.
• Serve immediately – For the best texture and flavor, assemble your crostini just before serving. This keeps the bread crisp and the toppings fresh.

How to Serve Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta

Presenting your tomato crostini beautifully can make any gathering feel special. Here are some ideas on how to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves – A sprinkle of additional basil not only adds color but also enhances the aromatic qualities of your dish.
• Balsamic glaze drizzle – A light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory flavors of the crostini.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad – A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the crostini.
• Antipasto platter – Include marinated vegetables, olives, and cheeses for guests to nibble on between bites of crostini. It’s great for sharing!
• Vegetable crudités with hummus – Crunchy veggies paired with creamy hummus offer a healthy side that balances out the richness of the main dish while adding more vibrant colors to your spread.
• Caprese skewers – Stack cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls (or vegan alternative), and basil on skewers for an easy-to-eat side that echoes the Italian theme.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta will not only taste great but also look stunning at any table! Enjoy every moment as you savor this delightful appetizer that captures the essence of spring and summer fare.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make many components in advance, making it a fantastic option for gatherings or busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Keep the pesto-ricotta mixture and toppings (tomatoes, olives, turkey roses) stored separately to maintain freshness.
• When ready to eat, combine the components fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• The pesto can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just place it in a freezer-safe container or an ice cube tray for easy portions.
• Once frozen, transfer the pesto cubes to a zip-top bag for space-saving storage.
• Note that the ricotta does not freeze well, so plan to prepare it fresh when you’re ready to assemble.

Reheating

• If you have leftover crostini, reheat them in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warm and slightly crispy.
• Avoid using a microwave as it can make the bread chewy rather than crisp.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pesto and ricotta mixture ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.

What can I use instead of Castelvetrano olives in Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta?

If you can’t find Castelvetrano olives, try using kalamata olives or green olives as a tasty alternative! Both will add great flavor to your crostini.

Can I substitute the ricotta cheese in this recipe?

Yes! You can use a dairy-free cream cheese or cashew-based spread if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. It will provide a similar creamy texture!

How do I serve Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta at a party?

These crostinis make a beautiful centerpiece on any appetizer table! Serve them on a large platter with extra basil leaves sprinkled around for decoration.

What type of bread works best for Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta?

Rustic French bread is ideal, but you could also use ciabatta or baguette slices. Just ensure your bread is sturdy enough to hold all those delicious toppings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant Tomato Crostini with Pesto and Ricotta as much as I do. It’s not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor, making it an ideal appetizer for any occasion! Whether it’s Mother’s Day brunch or a simple gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!