Quick Peach Bruschetta with Whipped Ricotta Recipe
A refreshing and quick appetizer featuring crispy baguette slices topped with creamy whipped ricotta and a vibrant mix of peaches, tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer gatherings or a light snack.
- Author: Joe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 12 crostini servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking and Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Bread and Butter
- 1 baguette, sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Peach and Tomato Mixture
- 1 pint chopped tomatoes
- 3 medium peaches, diced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- A generous handful of fresh basil leaves, sliced or roughly chopped
Ricotta
Finishing Touch
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Prepare Garlic Butter and Slice Baguette: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat your grill to the highest setting. Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick slices. Mash the butter with half of the minced garlic cloves and a pinch of salt in a bowl until well combined. Spread the garlic butter evenly over each baguette slice and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Toast the Crostini: Bake the prepared baguette slices in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown and crunchy. If grilling, cook for 1 to 2 minutes with the lid closed, checking frequently to prevent burning. The goal is a crisp exterior with a tender inside.
- Prepare the Peach and Tomato Mixture: While the crostini is toasting, mix the diced tomatoes, chopped peaches, and the remaining garlic in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then toss gently to combine. Allow this mixture to marinate for optimal flavor.
- Whip the Ricotta: Place the ricotta cheese in a food processor and blend until smooth and creamy. Transfer it to a bowl to make it easy to spread on the crostini.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread a generous layer of whipped ricotta onto each toasted baguette slice. Stir the fresh basil into the marinated peach and tomato mixture. Spoon this mixture over the ricotta on each slice. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for additional sweetness and tang, then serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute ricotta with a plant-based cream cheese and use vegan butter.
- Use ripe peaches and fresh tomatoes for the best flavor balance.
- The balsamic glaze adds sweetness and acidity but can be omitted if preferred.
- Feel free to grill the crostini for a smoky flavor instead of baking.
- This recipe is best served fresh to maintain the crostini’s crisp texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 crostini
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: peach bruschetta, whipped ricotta, summer appetizer, crostini recipe, easy appetizer, vegetarian bruschetta, peach tomato topping