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Piled high with creamy ricotta and ripe tomatoes, this rustic toast celebrates simple ingredients at their finest. Each element brings its own character - the ricotta adds richness, garden tomatoes provide bursts of sweetness, and toasted bread delivers satisfying crunch. A finishing drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds elevates this Mediterranean-inspired dish.
The beauty of this recipe lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients that shine with minimal preparation. When assembled thoughtfully, these basic components create something truly memorable.
Key Ingredients
- Ricotta cheese: Select fresh, whole milk ricotta with a smooth, creamy texture
- Crusty bread: Choose a hearty loaf with good structure and chewy crumb
- Fresh tomatoes: Use ripe, in-season tomatoes at their peak of flavor
Assembly Instructions
- Toast the Bread:
- Slice bread thickly and toast until golden brown with crispy edges but still tender inside
- Add the Ricotta:
- Let ricotta come to room temperature, then spread generously on warm toast using sweeping motions
- Layer Tomatoes:
- Slice tomatoes evenly and arrange carefully across the ricotta layer
- Final Garnish:
- Top with toasted sesame seeds and finish with quality olive oil
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Traditional Sicilian olive oil pairs exceptionally well here, its robust flavor complementing both the mild ricotta and sweet tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside peppery arugula dressed with lemon and oil for a light lunch. For heartier meals, pair with roasted tomato soup. When entertaining, cut into smaller portions and arrange on wooden boards with fresh figs.
Recipe Variations
Experiment with different cheese options like whipped feta or burrata. For plant-based versions, try seasoned white bean spread. Add depth with toppings such as roasted garlic or marinated artichokes.
Storage Tips
Components should be stored separately until serving. Keep ricotta sealed tightly in the refrigerator. Store tomatoes at room temperature to preserve flavor. Prepare fresh toast just before assembling.
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This recipe proves that quality ingredients prepared simply often create the most satisfying dishes. Whether served for breakfast or as an appetizer, these toasts deliver Mediterranean flavors in every bite. The combination of textures and fresh ingredients makes this dish a reliable favorite for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of tomatoes work well for this toast?
- Heirloom tomatoes are the best because they’re flavorful and have great texture, but any ripe, in-season tomatoes will also taste amazing. Just go for ones that are fresh and juicy.
- → Can the garlic mayo be made ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic-lemon mayo a few days before. Just store it in the fridge in a sealed container until you’re ready to use it.
- → What’s a good substitute for Aleppo pepper?
- If Aleppo pepper’s not available, you can mix sweet paprika with a sprinkle of cayenne, or even use crushed red pepper flakes for a similar flavor that has a little kick.
- → What kind of bread is ideal for this recipe?
- Thick slices of sourdough or artisan-style bread work great since they’re sturdy enough to hold the toppings. Aim for slices about 1/2 to 3/4 inches thick.
- → How can I stop the toast from getting soggy?
- Make sure the bread is toasted until golden and let it cool slightly before adding anything on top. Serve it right away so it stays crisp.