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A thick slab of crusty bread piled high with ricotta and zesty sun-dried tomatoes makes a quick lunch or crowd-pleasing appetizer anyone can pull off even on the busiest days.
This recipe came to life during a kitchen cleanout but it has become my weekend treat for lazy lunches on the patio. The briny olives mixed with creamy ricotta remind me of breezy seaside afternoons.
Ingredients
- Toasted bread: Any thick slice gives structure. Sourdough or whole grain add robust flavor and texture
- Ricotta: Mild and creamy. Go for whole-milk ricotta for the richest result. Check freshness by a clean dairy scent and pillowy texture
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Tangy and sweet. Jarred or packed in oil, both work. Just chop them small for even distribution. Plumper tomatoes have richer flavor
- Black olives: Look for a meaty texture and rich brininess. Kalamata or oil-cured varieties shine here
- Dried oregano: A pinch brings fragrant Italian depth. Quality oregano smells vibrant and almost minty
Instructions
- Slice and Toast the Bread:
- Choose thick bread slices and toast them until they are crisp and golden on the edges but still chewy in the center. This balance of crunch and tenderness holds the toppings perfectly without falling apart
- Spread the Ricotta:
- Spoon a generous layer of ricotta onto each toast. Use the back of your spoon to smooth it right to the edges and make small swirls for aesthetic appeal. The ricotta should be cold so it keeps its creamy structure
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Scatter the chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the ricotta. Layer them so every bite gets a pop of tartness. Their chewy texture and sharp flavor cut through the creamy base
- Top with Olives:
- Sprinkle the chopped black olives over the toasts. Their saltiness should complement the tomatoes not overpower them. Space them so they do not cluster in one spot
- Finish with Oregano:
- Crumble dried oregano between your fingers to release its aroma and sprinkle lightly over the top. This last step brightens the whole bite and ties the dish together
I adore how the black olives and sun-dried tomatoes play off each other. Sometimes we gather around and assemble our own toasts at the table. It turns a quick recipe into a memory worth savoring.
Storage Tips
If you need to make ahead store the ricotta mixture and chopped toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Toast the bread fresh before assembling for best texture and flavor. Prepared toasts are best eaten immediately since the ricotta will soften the bread after a while.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ricotta for whipped feta or creamy goat cheese for a tangier bite. Try roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts instead of sun-dried tomatoes for a milder version. Whole wheat bread or rye offers more earthiness if you are out of sourdough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a starter for Italian dinners alongside olives or roasted nuts. Cut into smaller triangles or squares for party platters. Bring them along on a picnic these toasts pack up well with toppings in separate jars.
Mediterranean Roots
This toast draws straight from Italian antipasti traditions where simple breads are topped with local cheese and preserved vegetables. The oregano and olives echo classic Mediterranean flavors.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use fresh cherry tomatoes in summer for bright sweetness. Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra warmth in winter. A drizzle of good olive oil in spring gives extra fragrance.
A touch of lemon zest over the finished toasts brightens the whole bite. This is a recipe you will return to again and again for its easy versatility and bold flavor.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of bread works best?
Sourdough or whole grain bread adds texture and depth to the toasts.
- → Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Fresh tomatoes offer a lighter flavor, but sun-dried tomatoes give a more intense taste.
- → Is there a substitute for ricotta?
Cottage cheese or whipped feta can be used for a different creamy base.
- → How do I make this dish vegan?
Use a plant-based ricotta or cashew cheese as a dairy-free alternative.
- → What garnishes pair well with these toasts?
A drizzle of olive oil or some fresh basil leaves enhance the Mediterranean flavors.