This creamy ricotta tomato sourdough toast is a perfect blend of flavors! The smooth ricotta paired with fresh tomatoes on crunchy sourdough makes a tasty treat.
I love making this for a quick breakfast or snack. It’s so easy! Just spread the ricotta, add the tomatoes, sprinkle some seasoning, and you’re good to go. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: This is the base of your toast, adding a wonderful crunch and flavor. If you don’t have sourdough, you can substitute with whole grain, ciabatta, or even a gluten-free bread for a tasty alternative.
Ricotta Cheese: Whole milk ricotta gives a creamy texture, but you can use part-skim for a lighter version. In a pinch, cottage cheese blended smooth can also work as a substitute.
Cherry Tomatoes: They are sweet and juicy! If you can’t find them, regular tomatoes sliced thinly will do. For a different flavor, try using roasted tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a twist.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This adds richness to your dish. You can replace it with avocado oil or any light oil if you prefer something different.
Fresh Basil: A must for garnish! If fresh isn’t available, dried basil can work, but use less since dried herbs are more potent. Other herbs like parsley or arugula can also be nice substitutes.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Toast Texture?
Getting your sourdough toast right is key to this dish. You want it crispy outside yet soft inside, so pay attention during the toasting process.
- Set your toaster or oven to a medium-high setting. This helps achieve that golden-brown color and crunch.
- Keep an eye on the bread to avoid burning. Different bread types have varying toast times.
- If using an oven, place the bread on a baking tray and toast for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Now that you have the tips, enjoy your creamy ricotta tomato sourdough toast to its fullest! A simple drizzle of olive oil and fresh toppings make a world of difference in flavor and presentation.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Tomato Sourdough Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Toast:
- 4 slices sourdough bread
For the Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk ricotta preferred)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 medium ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 garlic clove, peeled
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling
Estimated Time:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes from start to finish. With just a bit of toasting and topping preparation, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Sourdough:
Begin by toasting the slices of sourdough bread in a toaster or under the broiler until they are golden and crisp. This creates a nice crunchy base for your toppings!
2. Prepare the Ricotta:
While the bread is toasting, scoop the ricotta cheese into a bowl. Stir it gently to make it creamy. Add 1 tablespoon of the olive oil along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside.
3. Infuse with Garlic:
Once the bread is toasted, take the peeled garlic clove and rub it over the warm bread slices. This will give a lovely, mild garlic flavor.
4. Assemble the Toast:
Spread a generous layer of the creamy ricotta over each slice of toast, making sure to cover it well.
5. Add the Tomatoes:
Top the ricotta with the halved cherry tomatoes or sliced tomatoes. Arrange them nicely for an appealing look!
6. Season and Drizzle:
Drizzle a little more olive oil over the tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and if you like a bit of heat, some red pepper flakes.
7. Garnish:
Add some fresh basil leaves on top for that extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
8. Finish with Balsamic (Optional):
If desired, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over each toast for a sweet, tangy flavor contrast that’s simply delightful.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your creamy ricotta tomato sourdough toast is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve immediately while the toast is nice and warm.
This recipe delivers a delicious, fresh, and savory open-faced sandwich that’s not only simple but also a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough adds a nice flavor and texture, you can substitute it with any hearty bread like whole grain, ciabatta, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure to toast it well for the best results!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, it’s best to store the assembled toast in the fridge for a short period. However, be aware that the bread may get soggy. Instead, keep the ricotta and tomato topping separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days, and assemble the toast fresh when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you can try using cream cheese, goat cheese, or even burrata for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that each cheese will offer a unique taste and texture to the dish.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
For a vegan version, replace the ricotta with a plant-based ricotta or cashew cheese. Use a vegan bread, and ensure any toppings like balsamic glaze are also vegan-friendly. Enjoy a delicious plant-based toast!
