Ricotta Toast Recipe

This Prosciutto and Ricotta Toast Recipe with Honey Roasted Tomatoes is made with sourdough bread or a baguette, ricotta, lemon, honey, and basil.

This ricotta toast is one of the best I have ever had. The honey lemon sauce combination with the roasted tomatoes is absolutely incredible. This served as a great appetizer for your next family gathering. You won’t need to add salt for this recipe because the prosciutto is so salty already.

Have you ever had Prosciutto and Ricotta Toast? There are so many variations to this. You can substitute the tomatoes and use roasted grapes or roasted peaches. They all will work for this recipe. For this ricotta toast, you will use sourdough bread or a baguette, ricotta, lemon, honey, and basil. It is to die for.

Some other appetizers to try are my Caprese Skewers with Proscuitto or my Bruschetta Pomodoro.

Jump to:

• Whipped Ricotta vs Plain Ricotta
• Is Ricotta Healthy?
• What you need for this Ricotta Toast Recipe
• How to make Ricotta Toast Recipe
• Substitutions
• Ricotta Toast Recipe Variations
• Ricotta Toast Topping Ideas
• Should I use whole milk ricotta or skim milk ricotta?
• What can I do with a lot of ricotta cheese?
• What is the best bread for ricotta toast?
• How many calories are in a ricotta toast?
• Equipment
• How to store Ricotta Toast
• Ricotta Toast Recipe Top tips
• Ricotta Toast Recipe
• Food safety

Whipped Ricotta vs Plain Ricotta

Whipped ricotta and plain ricotta are two variations of the same cheese, with slightly different textures and uses.

Plain ricotta is a fresh, creamy cheese made from whey and whole or skim milk. It has a slightly grainy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Plain ricotta can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, such as lasagna, cannoli, and cheesecake.

Whipped ricotta is made by blending plain ricotta with cream or another dairy product until it becomes light and airy. This results in a smoother, fluffier texture than plain ricotta, with a lighter taste. Whipped ricotta is often used as a spread or dip, as a topping for toast or fruit, or as a filling for desserts such as crepes or pancakes.

Is Ricotta Healthy?

Ricotta cheese can be a healthy addition to your diet when consumed in moderation, as it contains several important nutrients. Here are some potential health benefits of ricotta:

• Good source of protein: Ricotta is a good source of protein, with approximately 14 grams per ½ cup serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
• Contains calcium: Ricotta is also a good source of calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
• Low in fat: Compared to many other types of cheese, ricotta is relatively low in fat. Half a cup of part-skim ricotta contains around 6 grams of fat, while the same amount of cheddar cheese contains around 18 grams.
• Low in sodium: Ricotta is also relatively low in sodium, which can be beneficial for those trying to reduce their salt intake.

However, it's worth noting that ricotta can be high in calories, so it's important to consume it in moderation if you're trying to manage your weight.

What you need for this Ricotta Toast Recipe

• Sourdough Bread
• Prosciutto
• Ricotta Cheese
• Tomatoes
• Olive oil
• Honey
• Lemon Juice
• Red Wine Vinegar
• Basil

See recipe card for Prosciutto and Ricotta Toast quantities.

How to make Ricotta Toast Recipe

Hint: I love using my stainless steel mixing bowl to combine especially hot ingredients, like the tomato.

Substitutions

Bread: I love using sourdough bread although you can use Italian bread or a baguette.

Prosciutto: Baking prosciutto brings out so much flavor. You can also use jamon serrano or jamon iberico for this.

Cheese: Nothing more fresh than using ricotta cheese, which has a neutral flavor and compliments the other flavors. Feel free to use cottage cheese too.

Tomatoes: I have used both large tomatoes or cherry tomatoes for this recipe. The cherry tomatoes burst when you bake them and give the toast such a good flavor.

Honey: You can use honey or maple syrup for this.

Lemon: Lemons are really a great ingredient to give this recipe a tart flavor.

Vinegar: Red wine vinegar is a great flavor enhancer. You can also use white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar.

Ricotta Toast Recipe Variations

Ricotta toast is a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized with a variety of toppings and seasonings.

1. Strawberry and Honey Ricotta Toast: Spread a thick layer of ricotta cheese onto toasted bread and top with sliced strawberries. Drizzle honey over the top and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
2. Tomato and Basil Ricotta Toast: Spread a thick layer of ricotta cheese onto toasted bread and top with sliced cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Fig and Walnut Ricotta Toast: Spread a thick layer of ricotta cheese onto toasted bread and top with sliced fresh figs. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts and a drizzle of honey.
4. Avocado and Egg Ricotta Toast: Spread a thick layer of ricotta cheese onto toasted bread and top with sliced avocado. Cook an egg to your liking and place it on top of the avocado. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
5. Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Ricotta Toast: Mix together ricotta cheese and crumbled goat cheese, then spread onto toasted bread. Top with sliced roasted red peppers and a sprinkle of fresh thyme.
6. Cinnamon and Banana Ricotta Toast: Spread a thick layer of ricotta cheese onto toasted bread and top with sliced bananas. Sprinkle with cinnamon and drizzle with honey.

If you love proscuitto, check out this Chicken wrapped in Proscuitto recipe.

Ricotta Toast Topping Ideas

• Fresh Berries: Top ricotta toast with your favorite fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. Drizzle with honey or sprinkle with chopped mint.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roast your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or zucchini, and top ricotta toast with them. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
• Smoked Salmon: Top ricotta toast with smoked salmon and thinly sliced red onion. Sprinkle with chopped dill and a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Nut Butter: Spread a layer of your favorite nut butter, such as almond or peanut butter, onto ricotta toast. Top with sliced bananas or apples and sprinkle with cinnamon.
• Avocado: Mash ripe avocado onto ricotta toast and top with a fried egg, sliced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
• Bacon and Tomato: Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble it onto ricotta toast. Top with sliced tomatoes and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper.
• Roasted Garlic: Spread roasted garlic onto ricotta toast and top with chopped fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme.

Should I use whole milk ricotta or skim milk ricotta?

The type of ricotta you use for your ricotta toast can affect its taste, texture, and nutritional value. Generally, whole milk ricotta is creamier, richer, and more flavorful than skim milk ricotta, which has a lower fat content and may be drier and less creamy.

That being said, both whole milk and skim milk ricotta can be used for ricotta toast, depending on your personal preference and dietary needs. If you're looking for a richer, more indulgent ricotta toast, whole milk ricotta may be the better choice. However, if you're watching your fat intake or prefer a lighter taste, skim milk ricotta may be the better option.

What can I do with a lot of ricotta cheese?

If you have a lot of ricotta cheese, there are many delicious ways to use it. Here are some ideas:

• Make lasagna: Ricotta cheese is a classic ingredient in lasagna, and it adds a creamy, cheesy layer to the dish.
• Use it as a dip: Mix ricotta cheese with herbs, garlic, and lemon juice to make a delicious dip for crackers, vegetables, or pita bread.
• Bake with it: Ricotta cheese can be used in a variety of baked goods, from muffins and cakes to scones and cookies. It adds moisture and richness to the recipe.
• Stuff pasta shells: Stuff jumbo pasta shells with ricotta cheese, spinach, and tomato sauce for a delicious and hearty meal.
• Use it in a savory tart: Mix ricotta cheese with eggs and vegetables and bake in a pie crust for a savory and satisfying tart.
• Add it to pancakes or waffles: Ricotta cheese can be used to make fluffy and delicious pancakes or waffles that are perfect for breakfast or brunch.
• Make a creamy sauce: Use ricotta cheese to make a creamy pasta sauce that's lower in calories than traditional cream-based sauces.
• Make a fruit dip: Mix ricotta cheese with honey, vanilla extract, and fresh fruit for a delicious and healthy dip.

What is the best bread for ricotta toast?

The best bread for ricotta toast is a matter of personal preference, but there are a few bread types that work particularly well with ricotta. Here are some options:

• Sourdough: Sourdough bread has a tangy flavor and a chewy texture that pairs well with creamy ricotta.
• Whole wheat: Whole wheat bread is a healthier option that adds a nutty flavor and hearty texture to ricotta toast.
• Baguette: A crispy baguette can be sliced thin and toasted to make a sturdy base for ricotta toast.
• Ciabatta: This Italian bread has a soft, airy texture that complements the creaminess of ricotta.
• Multigrain: Multigrain breads add a mix of textures and flavors to ricotta toast, making it more interesting and satisfying.

How many calories are in a ricotta toast?

The number of calories in a ricotta toast will depend on the specific ingredients used, as well as the size of the toast. However, here is a general estimate of the calories in a basic ricotta toast with no additional toppings:

• 1 slice of whole wheat bread (approximately 70 calories)
• 2 tablespoons of ricotta cheese (approximately 50 calories)
• Total: approximately 120 calories

Keep in mind that if you add additional toppings, such as honey or fruit, the calorie count will increase. Additionally, the calorie count may vary depending on the brand of bread and ricotta cheese used. If you are counting calories, be sure to measure your ingredients carefully and check the nutrition information on the packaging.

Equipment

To make ricotta toast with roasted cherry tomatoes and melted honey, you will need:

• Baking sheet: To roast the cherry tomatoes, you'll need a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Mixing bowl: To mix the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper, you'll need a mixing bowl.
• Spatula: To toss the cherry tomatoes in the mixing bowl, you'll need a spatula.
• Bread knife: To slice the bread for toasting, you'll need a bread knife.
• Toaster or oven: To toast the bread, you can use a toaster or the oven.
• Small saucepan: To melt the honey, you'll need a small saucepan. I love using my Caraway pots for best quality.
• Serving platter: To serve the ricotta toast, you'll need a serving platter or individual plates.
• Spoon: To spread the ricotta cheese onto the toast and top with the roasted cherry tomatoes and melted honey, you'll need a spoon.
• Optional: If you prefer, you can also use a cheese grater to grate lemon zest over the top of the ricotta toast for an extra burst of flavor.

How to store Ricotta Toast

Ricotta toast is best enjoyed immediately after it is prepared, as the bread can become soggy and the toppings can lose their freshness and flavor if left for too long. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.

To store ricotta toast properly, follow these steps:

1. Allow the toast to cool completely before storing. Do not store the toast while it is still warm or it will create moisture in the container.
2. Place the ricotta toast in an airtight container. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the toast without squishing it.
3. Seal the container and store it in the refrigerator.
4. To reheat the toast, you can place it in a toaster or toaster oven until it is warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

Ricotta Toast Recipe Top tips

• Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients can make a big difference in the flavor of your ricotta toast. Use high-quality bread, fresh ricotta cheese, and fresh, seasonal toppings for the best results.
• Toast the bread just right: Toast the bread until it is golden brown and crispy, but not burnt. You want it to be sturdy enough to hold up to the toppings, but not so crispy that it crumbles when you try to eat it.
• Add flavor to the ricotta cheese: Plain ricotta cheese can be a bit bland, so consider adding some extra flavor to it by mixing in some lemon zest, chopped herbs, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Season the toppings: Even if your toppings are fresh and flavorful on their own, a sprinkle of salt and black pepper can really bring out their natural flavors and make them pop.
• Experiment with different toppings: Ricotta toast is a versatile dish that can be customized with a variety of toppings. Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors and combinations to find your perfect ricotta toast recipe.
• Keep it simple: While it's fun to experiment with different toppings, sometimes the simplest ricotta toast recipes are the best. A classic ricotta toast with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey can be just as delicious as a more elaborate recipe.

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Food safety

We sometimes take for a granted that we have years (or decades) of cooking experience, that the average visitor may not. Add to, or remove from, the list below with health and safety tips.

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.