why make this recipe

Strawberry Ricotta Crostini is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. This appetizer is not only easy to make but also impresses with its vibrant colors and tasty ingredients. It’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a casual snack. With fresh strawberries and creamy ricotta on crispy baguette slices, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

how to make Strawberry Ricotta Crostini

Ingredients:

½ cup strawberries, chopped
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
1 tsp. lemon zest
2 tsp. brown sugar
5 tbsp. ricotta
½ baguette

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350 F (175 C).
Slice the baguette into 12 ½-inch slices and toast them for 5 minutes, or until nicely toasted.
While the toasts are toasting, finely chop the strawberries until you have ½ cup.
In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Reduce over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, until thickened.
Prepare the lemon zest.
Combine the strawberries and lemon zest in a bowl. Add the reduced balsamic vinegar and gently stir.
Spread a bit of ricotta on each toast, then top with the balsamic strawberries.

how to serve Strawberry Ricotta Crostini

To serve this delicious crostini, arrange it on a beautiful platter. You can add fresh mint leaves for garnish to add a splash of color. Serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering, or enjoy it as a light snack on your own.

how to store Strawberry Ricotta Crostini

It’s best to serve this crostini fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store the components separately. Keep the toasted baguette slices in an airtight container for up to two days. Store the balsamic strawberries and ricotta in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reassemble the crostini.

tips to make Strawberry Ricotta Crostini

Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
Toast the baguette slices just until they are lightly golden to keep them crispy.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to the balsamic reduction.
Make sure to give the strawberries some time to marinate in the balsamic for better taste.

variation

You can experiment with this recipe by adding a drizzle of honey on top or swapping strawberries for other fruits like figs or peaches. Also, try using goat cheese instead of ricotta for a different flavor.

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Ricotta Crostini ahead of time?

You can prepare the balsamic strawberries and toast the baguette slices ahead of time. Assemble the crostini just before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy.

What can I serve with this dish?

This crostini pairs well with a variety of drinks, including white wine, sparkling water, or iced tea.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries work best for this recipe. However, if you only have frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them before using. They may be softer but still deliver good flavor.