This Whipped Ricotta Bruschetta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Basil Pesto is a sophisticated yet simple appetizer that brings together creamy, tangy, and herbaceous flavors on a crisp slice of toasted bread. With layers of whipped ricotta, blistered cherry tomatoes, fragrant pesto, and fresh basil, each bite is rich in texture and bursting with vibrant flavor—perfect for entertaining or elevating your everyday table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe offers an elegant presentation with minimal effort. The whipped ricotta adds a light, creamy base, while the roasted tomatoes deliver sweet acidity and depth. Basil pesto brings a bold, aromatic touch that enhances the entire dish. It’s easy to prepare, vegetarian-friendly, and makes a beautiful starter for dinner parties, brunches, or summer gatherings. Plus, it’s highly adaptable to seasonal ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 crusty baguette or sourdough, sliced and toasted
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the cherry tomatoes on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
- Roast the tomatoes for 15–20 minutes, or until blistered and juicy. Remove from oven and set aside.
- While the tomatoes roast, whip the ricotta in a bowl or food processor until smooth and airy.
- Toast the bread slices until golden and crisp, either in the oven or on a grill pan.
- Spread a generous layer of whipped ricotta onto each slice of toast.
- Top with roasted cherry tomatoes, then drizzle with basil pesto.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a pinch of sea salt. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 6 bruschetta slices
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 230 kcal per serving
Variations
- Add Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle with a touch of balsamic reduction for extra depth and sweetness.
- Garlic Toast: Rub toasted bread with a garlic clove for added flavor.
- Ricotta Alternatives: Substitute whipped goat cheese or cream cheese for a tangier base.
- Grilled Variation: Grill the bread and tomatoes for a smoky finish.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste to the pesto or ricotta.
Storage/Reheating
This dish is best served fresh. However, components can be prepared ahead:
- Store whipped ricotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Roasted tomatoes can be made a day ahead and gently reheated before assembling.
- Toasted bread can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for 1 day.
- Assembled bruschetta should be served promptly to maintain texture and freshness.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought ricotta?
Yes, but whipping it in a food processor or with a hand mixer enhances the texture and creaminess.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Assemble just before serving, and ensure the toast is well-crisped to maintain structure under the toppings.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
You can prepare all components in advance and assemble right before serving to save time without sacrificing quality.
What type of bread is best?
Crusty baguette or sourdough works well due to its firm texture and ability to hold toppings without becoming soggy.
Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, for a more concentrated flavor. Rehydrate them slightly in olive oil before use if they’re very dry.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, use a plant-based ricotta alternative and ensure the pesto is made without cheese.
What wine pairs well with this appetizer?
A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the flavors beautifully.
Can I use homemade pesto?
Absolutely. Homemade basil pesto enhances freshness and can be adjusted to your taste preferences.
Can this be served cold?
Yes, it can be served at room temperature or cold, though slightly warm tomatoes and toast elevate the flavor.
How can I make it more filling?
Top with thinly sliced prosciutto or grilled vegetables to turn this into a more substantial small plate.
Conclusion
Whipped Ricotta Bruschetta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Basil Pesto is an irresistible appetizer that combines creamy, crisp, and savory elements into one beautiful bite. It’s a versatile recipe that can be dressed up for special occasions or served casually with friends and wine. Quick to prepare and always elegant, this dish is a must-try for any lover of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
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Whipped Ricotta Bruschetta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Basil Pesto
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 bruschetta slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Whipped Ricotta Bruschetta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Basil Pesto is a gourmet-style appetizer layered with creamy whipped ricotta, juicy blistered tomatoes, fragrant basil pesto, and fresh basil atop golden, toasted bread. It’s a flavor-packed bite—perfect for elegant entertaining, quick starters, or seasonal small plates. Keywords: whipped ricotta bruschetta, roasted tomato appetizer, pesto toast, Italian starters, vegetarian bruschetta recipe.
Ingredients
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1 crusty baguette or sourdough, sliced and toasted
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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1 pint cherry tomatoes
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons basil pesto
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Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place cherry tomatoes on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 15–20 minutes until blistered and juicy.
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While tomatoes roast, whip ricotta in a bowl or food processor until smooth and creamy.
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Toast bread slices until golden and crisp.
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Spread whipped ricotta generously onto each toasted slice.
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Top with roasted cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of basil pesto.
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Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a pinch of sea salt.
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Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
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Add a garlic rub to the toast for extra flavor.
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Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet-tangy finish.
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Great served as a brunch starter or wine pairing bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Small Plates
- Method: Roasting, Toasting
- Cuisine: Italian
