Crostini with Balsamic Strawberries and Ricotta Recipe
These Crostini with Balsamic Strawberries and Ricotta offer a delightful combination of tangy, sweet, and creamy flavors. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or light snack, this easy-to-make recipe features toasted baguette slices topped with a luscious balsamic strawberry reduction and creamy ricotta cheese, enhanced by fresh lemon zest for a refreshing finish.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Balsamic Strawberry Topping
- ½ cup strawberries, chopped
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar (divided: 4 tbsp for reduction and remaining for topping)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tsp brown sugar
For the Crostini
- 5 tbsp ricotta cheese
- ½ baguette, sliced into 12 half-inch slices
Instructions
- Toast the Baguette: Slice the baguette into 12 slices about half an inch thick. Arrange them on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Prepare the Strawberries: While the bread toasts, finely chop the strawberries to yield ½ cup. If strawberries are very ripe and juicy, place them on a paper towel to drain excess juice to avoid watering down the sauce.
- Make the Balsamic Reduction: In a small saucepan, combine 4 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar with 2 teaspoons of brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and reduce the mixture for 6 to 8 minutes until it thickens into a syrupy consistency.
- Prepare Lemon Zest: While the reduction simmers, zest 1 teaspoon of lemon peel fresh, avoiding the bitter white pith.
- Combine Strawberries and Sauce: In a small bowl or measuring cup, gently combine the chopped strawberries, lemon zest, and the cooled balsamic reduction.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread approximately a half tablespoon of ricotta onto each toasted baguette slice. Top with a spoonful of the balsamic strawberry mixture. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- If fresh strawberries are not in season, frozen strawberries thawed and drained may be used, though the texture will differ slightly.
- The balsamic reduction can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- To add a crunchy element, sprinkle toasted nuts such as pistachios or almonds on top before serving.
- Use whole milk ricotta for creaminess or part-skim ricotta for a lighter option.
- Serve this appetizer chilled or at room temperature depending on preference.
