Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast Recipe
If you’re looking for a breakfast or snack that feels like a celebration of summer on your plate, Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast is pure joy in every bite. Creamy ricotta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together on crispy sourdough, all finished with a drizzle of olive oil and sweet balsamic glaze. It’s a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a little everyday luxury. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast is the kind of recipe that instantly becomes a favorite—simple, fresh, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about letting a handful of quality ingredients shine. Each component adds its own magic, from the tangy crunch of sourdough to the creamy richness of ricotta and the freshness of ripe tomatoes. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each one matters:
- Sourdough bread: The sturdy, tangy foundation that holds all the toppings and offers a satisfying crunch when toasted.
- Whole milk ricotta cheese: Adds a luscious, creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs perfectly with bright tomatoes.
- Olive oil: Brings smooth, fruity richness and helps create that dreamy ricotta spread.
- Garlic clove: Rubbing the toast with garlic infuses each bite with subtle, savory warmth.
- Cherry tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and juiciness pop against the creamy ricotta.
- Balsamic glaze: A drizzle adds tangy-sweet depth and a glossy finish.
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: Essential for balancing flavors and adding a gentle kick.
- Fresh basil leaves: The aromatic final touch that brings everything together and adds color.
How to Make Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast
Step 1: Toast the Sourdough
Start by toasting your sourdough slices until they’re golden and crisp. You can use a toaster, a grill pan, or even your oven’s broiler—whatever’s easiest for you. The goal is to get those gorgeous edges and a sturdy base that can hold up to all the toppings. Don’t skimp on this step; that crunch is what makes Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast so irresistible!
Step 2: Infuse with Garlic
While the toast is still warm, gently rub each slice with the cut side of a halved garlic clove. This simple trick adds a subtle, savory aroma without overpowering the delicate flavors of the ricotta and tomatoes. It’s one of those little details that takes this dish from good to unforgettable.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Ricotta Spread
In a small bowl, stir together the ricotta cheese with a tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Mixing in the olive oil gives the ricotta a silky, spreadable consistency and boosts its richness. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you like; this is your moment to make it perfect for you!
Step 4: Assemble the Toasts
Generously spread the creamy ricotta mixture onto each slice of garlicky toast. Don’t be shy—a thick layer is what makes each bite so decadent. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on top, nestling them into the ricotta so you get a bit of everything in each mouthful. Sprinkle with another pinch of salt and pepper to really make those flavors pop.
Step 5: Finish with Flair
Drizzle a little extra olive oil and a swirl of balsamic glaze over the assembled toasts for that restaurant-worthy finish. Scatter fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and aroma. Now, your Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast is ready to serve—and trust me, it looks as dreamy as it tastes!
How to Serve Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the classic choice for topping Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast, but you can get creative with microgreens, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or even a touch of lemon zest. These finishing touches not only add vibrant color but also elevate the flavors and aromas, making every bite feel special.
Side Dishes
To turn your Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast into a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad, a bowl of fresh fruit, or even a poached egg for extra protein. For brunch gatherings, a platter of marinated olives or a citrusy yogurt parfait makes a wonderful complement.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, cut the toasts into smaller pieces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or serve them on a large platter for a beautiful brunch centerpiece. Layering the ingredients in a deconstructed style or offering a trio of flavored ricottas (herb, lemon, or spicy) will wow your guests and showcase the versatility of Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast, store the components separately for best results. Keep the ricotta mixture and tomatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and save the toasted bread at room temperature in a paper bag. This way, everything stays fresh and the toast won’t get soggy.
Freezing
While the assembled Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast isn’t ideal for freezing (the texture of both ricotta and tomatoes can suffer), you can freeze extra sourdough bread slices. Just thaw and re-toast them before assembling your toasts fresh with the toppings.
Reheating
To revive leftover toast, pop the bread in a toaster or warm oven for a few minutes to restore its crunch. Add the ricotta and toppings after reheating. If the ricotta mixture has firmed up in the fridge, let it come to room temperature for easy spreading.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
Absolutely! Store-bought balsamic glaze works beautifully and saves time. If you prefer, you can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey until thickened, but either option brings that perfect sweet-tangy finish to your Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast.
What if I don’t have sourdough bread?
No worries! While sourdough adds wonderful tang and crunch, any hearty, rustic bread will work—think ciabatta, multigrain, or even a sturdy whole wheat loaf. The key is to use something that toasts up well and can hold the toppings.
Can I roast the tomatoes instead of using them fresh?
Yes, and it’s delicious! Roasting cherry tomatoes with a little olive oil, salt, and herbs brings out their sweetness and adds a jammy texture. It’s a cozy twist, especially lovely during cooler months when tomatoes aren’t at their peak.
Is there a vegan alternative for the ricotta?
You can easily swap in a plant-based ricotta or make your own vegan version using blended tofu or cashews. Just season it well, and you’ll still get that creamy, dreamy texture that makes Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast so special.
How do I make this recipe spicy?
For a spicy kick, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the finished toast or drizzle with hot honey. You can even add a little chopped chili to the ricotta mixture for extra heat—customizing your Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast is half the fun!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast enough—it’s one of those dishes that’s impossibly simple yet always manages to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, give it a try and see just how bright and flavorful breakfast (or lunch, or snack time) can be!
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Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 toasts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in this easy and flavorful Ricotta & Tomato Sourdough Toast recipe, perfect for a wholesome Mediterranean-inspired breakfast. Creamy whole milk ricotta cheese is blended with olive oil and spread over golden toasted sourdough, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a vibrant, satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients
Base
- 4 slices sourdough bread
Ricotta Spread
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Tomato Topping
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Aromatics and Garnish
- 1 garlic clove, halved
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Toast the Bread: Toast the sourdough slices until golden and crisp, either in a toaster, on a grill pan, or under a broiler, ensuring a crunchy base for the toppings.
- Rub with Garlic: While the bread is still warm, lightly rub each slice with the cut side of the garlic clove to infuse a subtle garlicky aroma and flavor.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix until creamy and smooth for easy spreading.
- Assemble the Toast: Spread the ricotta mixture generously over each toasted slice, creating a luscious layer that complements the bread’s texture.
- Add Tomato Topping: Top each toast with the halved cherry tomatoes and season with additional salt and pepper to enhance their sweetness and freshness.
- Finish with Drizzles and Garnish: Drizzle a little extra olive oil and a swirl of balsamic glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant, colorful touch. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of flavors and textures.
Notes
- For extra flavor, roast the cherry tomatoes with olive oil and herbs before topping the toast.
- Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey for a spicy-sweet twist.
- Use fresh basil leaves just before serving to preserve their vibrant flavor and color.
- This toast pairs well with a side of arugula salad or a poached egg for a more substantial meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Toasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 toast
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
