Save to Pinterest If you are looking for a quick way to make an impressive appetizer or light lunch, these Ricotta Roasted Tomato Toasties cover all the bases. Golden toast slathered with creamy ricotta and crowned with juicy roasted tomatoes bring the sunshine of Mediterranean flavors to your plate. This recipe was born out of my love for summer tomatoes, and every time I serve these, they disappear in minutes.
Our family first tried this when we had leftover ricotta and a basket of cherry tomatoes from the farmer's market. Now it is my go-to when I want to treat myself or impress guests with barely any effort.
Ingredients
- Rustic sourdough or country bread: Thick slices give the best crunch after toasting. Choose bread with a chewy crumb for maximum texture.
- Ricotta cheese: Choose the freshest ricotta for the creamiest texture. I often use whole-milk ricotta for extra richness.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Brings a fruity note and helps everything meld together. The better the oil, the better the flavor.
- Lemon zest: Provides brightness. Fresh zest is key so use a firm lemon with vibrant color and no shriveling.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Use a flaky or kosher salt and grind your pepper for lively heat and flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet. Look for tomatoes that feel heavy for their size and are free of blemishes.
- Balsamic vinegar: Deepens the tomato sweetness with a tangy hit. Opt for an aged balsamic for more complex flavor.
- Dried oregano or thyme: These herbs give the tomatoes a Mediterranean flavor. Dried versions work fine but use a fresh sprig if you want more assertive herbiness.
- Fresh basil leaves: Add a burst of color and aroma. Tear by hand for best flavor.
- Flaky sea salt and extra olive oil for garnish: Take these or leave them but they make a restaurant-style finish.
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Tomatoes:
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and place them cut-side up on the parchment. Drizzle with olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle dried oregano or thyme and season generously with salt and pepper. Give them a gentle toss so every tomato glistens before arranging them back cut-side up. This lets them roast evenly and caramelize beautifully.
- Roast the Tomatoes:
- Slide the tray into the oven and roast for around 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them you want the tomatoes to collapse and wrinkle so their juices intensify but not burn. The smell will be your cue they will be sweet and mouthwatering.
- Make the Ricotta Mixture:
- While those tomatoes work their magic, scoop ricotta into a bowl. Stream in olive oil and add lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir patiently until the texture is smooth and almost whipped. This part is important so take your time.
- Toast the Bread:
- Toast the sliced bread until it turns a deep golden brown. I find thick slices benefit from a few extra seconds. You can use a toaster, grill, or even a hot dry skillet.
- Assemble and Spread:
- While the toast is still hot, spread a thick layer of the seasoned ricotta mixture over each slice. Let the creamy cheese start to melt into the crunchy bread.
- Top with Roasted Tomatoes and Garnish:
- Carefully spoon the warm roasted tomatoes over the ricotta, making sure each piece is generous. Finish with fresh torn basil leaves. If you like, sprinkle flaky sea salt and drizzle a bit of your best olive oil to finish it off with flair.
- Serve Immediately:
- Serve your toasties right away. The contrast of warm tomatoes and cool ricotta on crisp toast is what makes this so special.
Save to Pinterest One of my favorite parts about these toasties is the roasted tomatoes I could eat them straight off the tray My son once declared he could live on basil torn fresh from our garden and these toasties are always our way to welcome summer
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the roasted tomatoes and ricotta mixture separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The bread is best toasted fresh to keep its crunch. Reassemble just before serving for best results. Tomatoes can last up to three days refrigerated.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out the sourdough for any hearty bread such as multigrain or ciabatta. For a dairy-free version, try almond or tofu-based ricotta. If fresh basil is unavailable, arugula or even baby spinach provides a wonderful finish. During winter, sun-dried tomatoes work in place of fresh.
Serving Suggestions
These toasties shine as an appetizer before a larger Mediterranean meal. For lunch, pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine. If you are hosting brunch, offer tiny versions on baguette slices as finger food.
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Ricotta and roasted tomato combinations appear across Mediterranean kitchens where bread and fresh dairy are daily staples. This dish especially celebrates the tomato season in late summer, but you can roast halved plum or grape tomatoes in the off months with great results.
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap cherry tomatoes for colorful heirloom varieties in peak summer Use microgreens or edible flowers as a garnish for spring gatherings Roasted garlic can be added in the colder months for a new flavor boost
Success Stories
One friend made these toasties for her book club and told me not a crumb was left by the end. Another variation I loved as a kid was my grandmother’s version using her own sheep’s milk ricotta and tomatoes from her garden. It has always tasted like pure sunshine to me.
Freezer Meal Conversion
While the assembled toasties do not freeze well the roasted tomatoes can be made ahead and frozen. Freeze in a single layer then transfer to a container. Thaw and warm gently before assembling your toasties fresh.
Save to Pinterest Serve these toasties as soon as they are assembled for maximum contrast and freshness. Each bite feels like sunshine and Mediterranean comfort.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use another type of bread?
Yes, choose any sturdy bread like country loaf or a gluten-free alternative to suit dietary needs.
- → Is it possible to substitute ricotta cheese?
Absolutely, plant-based ricotta or creamy goat cheese works well for a different flavor profile.
- → What herbs pair best with roasted tomatoes?
Fresh basil is classic, but thyme or arugula also complement the tomatoes beautifully for varied tastes.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
You can roast the tomatoes and prepare the ricotta mixture ahead, but assemble just before serving for crispy toast.
- → How do I add extra flavor to the toast?
Rub the toasted bread slices with a garlic clove or drizzle with honey for a sweet touch if desired.
- → What can I serve with these toasties?
Pair with a simple green salad or soup for a satisfying light lunch or appetizer spread.