This creamy ricotta and tomato sourdough toast is a lovely treat! The smooth ricotta pairs perfectly with juicy tomatoes on crunchy sourdough bread. It’s amazingly fresh and colorful.
Honestly, I could eat this every day for breakfast! You can also add some herbs on top for extra flavor. Enjoy it as a quick snack or a light meal—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: This bread gives a lovely crunch and flavor. If you can’t find sourdough, try whole grain or ciabatta for a different texture.
Ricotta Cheese: Whole milk ricotta is creamy and rich, making the toast delightful. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using part-skim ricotta or mascarpone for a similar texture.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are essential! I love using heirloom for their sweetness, but any ripe tomato works well. If tomatoes are out of season, you can use sun-dried tomatoes for an intense flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma and flavor. If you don’t have basil, feel free to use arugula or parsley as a substitute.
How Do You Make the Toast Extra Flavorful?
For the garlic rub, using a fresh garlic clove gives a hint of garlic without overpowering the dish. Here’s how to make sure you get the best flavor:
- Toast the sourdough until it’s crispy but not burnt.
- While it’s still warm, rub the halved garlic on the surface of the bread. This infuses flavor nicely!
Lastly, don’t skimp on the olive oil and seasoning! A good drizzle and a sprinkle of salt can elevate the toast significantly.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta and Tomato Sourdough Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 slices of sourdough bread
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes (heirloom or vine-ripened), sliced
- 1 garlic clove, halved
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or balsamic glaze for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious toast takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy breakfast or snack option. Perfect for busy mornings, or when you just want something fresh and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Sourdough:
Start by toasting the slices of sourdough bread in a toaster or on a grill pan until they are golden and crisp. This step is important because you want a good crunch to hold everything together. While the bread is still warm, take the half garlic clove and gently rub the cut side over one side of each toast. This adds a subtle garlic flavor—yum!
2. Add the Ricotta:
Now it’s time to spread on the ricotta cheese! Take the ricotta and scoop a generous amount onto the garlic-rubbed side of each toast. Use a butter knife or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly. The creaminess of the ricotta will make your toast deliciously rich!
3. Layer with Tomatoes:
Next, arrange the sliced tomatoes on top of the ricotta layer. You can overlap them a bit for a nice presentation. Feel free to season the tomatoes lightly with a touch of salt and pepper if you like!
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Take your extra virgin olive oil and drizzle it over the tomatoes. This adds flavor and richness, making your toast even more enjoyable!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and flavor. If you want a little extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serve the toast immediately while it’s still warm and crunchy. Enjoy your delightful, creamy ricotta and tomato sourdough toast!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sourdough is delicious for its crunch and tang, you can substitute it with other breads like whole grain, ciabatta, or even gluten-free bread, depending on your preferences.
How to Store Leftover Toast?
It’s best to eat this toast fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the ricotta and tomato separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The toasted bread will lose its crunch, but you can reassemble and toast again briefly to warm up!
Can I Prepare This Toast in Advance?
For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the ricotta spread and slice the tomatoes in advance. Store them in the fridge, and assemble the toast right before you plan to serve it for the best texture and flavor!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to enhance the toast with additional toppings. Consider adding a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or even some sliced olives or avocado for variety!
