If you are craving a fresh, vibrant snack that feels both luxurious and simple, the Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together the creamy smoothness of fresh ricotta cheese, the bright juiciness of ripe tomatoes, and the nutty crunch of toasted sesame seeds, all enhanced by a drizzle of fruity extra virgin olive oil. It’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors that’s easy enough for a quick breakfast or an elegant appetizer that will wow anyone you serve.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of straightforward, high-quality ingredients that work beautifully together. Each one is critical, bringing its own unique element to the dish’s overall harmony of flavor, texture, and color.
- Crusty sourdough or whole grain bread: A sturdy and flavorful base that crisps up nicely and holds all the toppings perfectly.
- Fresh ricotta cheese: Light, creamy, and slightly sweet, ricotta acts as a luscious spread that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes: Bursting with natural sweetness and juice, these tomatoes add vibrant color and freshness.
- Lightly toasted sesame seeds: Provide a delightful, nutty crunch that contrasts with the softness of the ricotta and bread.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Rich and fruity, this oil brings all the flavors together while adding a silky finish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance each ingredient’s natural qualities.
How to Make Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Bread to Perfection
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay your slices of sourdough or whole grain bread on a baking tray and toast them until they turn golden brown. This toasting process is crucial as it creates a crispy yet tender base that won’t sog once topped.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Ricotta Spread
While the bread is toasting, combine fresh ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This simple seasoning elevates the ricotta from mild to flavorful, creating the perfect cushion for the tomatoes.
Step 3: Slice the Tomatoes
Slice your tomatoes into thick, juicy rounds. Opting for heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes will give you that beautiful balance of sweetness and acidity necessary for this recipe’s bright taste profile. Thick slices ensure the tomato’s flavor shines and adds moisture without making the toast soggy.
Step 4: Assemble the Toast
Spread a generous layer of the seasoned ricotta mixture over each piece of toasted bread. Then, carefully arrange the tomato slices on top, covering the ricotta. This layered approach ensures every bite includes that creamy, tangy, fresh combination we’re aiming for.
Step 5: The Final Touch With Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil
Sprinkle light toasted sesame seeds evenly over the tomato-topped toast. Finally, drizzle extra virgin olive oil across the top to add richness and a subtle fruity note. Serve warm for the best experience, where the textures and flavors truly meld together beautifully.
How to Serve Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme can brighten the dish even more, while a few red pepper flakes bring a gentle kick. For an elegant twist, a few capers or a sprinkle of sea salt flakes make stunning garnishes that deepen flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
This toast pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like a crisp green salad or a bowl of mixed olives. For a heartier spread, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a bright citrusy quinoa salad to keep your meal balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, cut the toast into smaller squares for easy finger food. Another fun idea is to serve the ricotta mixture and tomato slices separately on a platter with toasted bread so guests can build their own. This interactive presentation always sparks engaging conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store the ricotta and tomato toppings separately from the toasted bread in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy and keeps each component fresh.
Freezing
This particular Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe does not freeze well due to the fresh ingredients and crisp bread. It’s best enjoyed fresh to make the most of its delicious textures and flavors.
Reheating
To reheat, toast any leftover bread slices again in the oven to regain their crunch and gently warm the ricotta and tomatoes separately before assembling. This little reheating trick helps restore the dish’s fresh-from-the-kitchen magic.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While crusty sourdough or whole grain offers the best texture and flavor, you can use any bread you love. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the toppings without becoming soggy.
Is it possible to substitute ricotta cheese?
If you’re out of ricotta, soft cheeses like burrata or cream cheese can be good alternatives. They won’t be quite the same but still provide a creamy base for the tomatoes.
How important are the sesame seeds?
Sesame seeds add a lovely nutty crunch that elevates the dish, but if you don’t have any, you can omit them or sprinkle with toasted nuts like pine nuts or almonds for a similar effect.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
You can make a vegan version by using a plant-based ricotta alternative—such as tofu ricotta or cashew cheese—and ensuring your bread and olive oil are vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
What’s the best way to pick tomatoes for this recipe?
Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes that are firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure. Heirloom or vine-ripened varieties pack the most flavor and make the toast a colorful showstopper.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Each bite delivers freshness, creaminess, and crunch in perfect harmony. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick snack or sharing with friends over a leisurely brunch, this recipe is guaranteed to become one of your favorites. So don’t wait—grab some fresh ingredients and enjoy a taste sensation that’s as easy as it is irresistible.
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Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Ricotta & Tomato Toast recipe is a simple yet elegant dish featuring creamy fresh ricotta cheese, ripe heirloom tomatoes, and toasted sesame seeds drizzled with extra virgin olive oil on crusty sourdough or whole grain bread. Perfect for a light breakfast, snack, or appetizer, it combines fresh flavors with a satisfying crunch and a subtle nutty aroma from the sesame seeds.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 slices crusty sourdough or whole grain bread
- ½ cup fresh ricotta cheese
- 2 ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon lightly toasted sesame seeds
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Toast the bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the slices of crusty sourdough or whole grain bread on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until they become golden brown and slightly crisp, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Prepare the ricotta mixture: In a bowl, combine the fresh ricotta cheese with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well until the ricotta becomes creamy and evenly seasoned, enhancing its natural mild flavor.
- Slice the tomatoes: Wash and slice the ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes into thick, juicy rounds, ensuring each slice is substantial enough to layer effectively on the toast.
- Assemble the toast: Spread the seasoned ricotta mixture generously over the toasted bread slices. Then, layer the thick tomato slices evenly on top of the ricotta spread.
- Add sesame seeds and olive oil: Sprinkle the lightly toasted sesame seeds over the tomato topped toasts for a nutty crunch. Finally, drizzle extra virgin olive oil over each toast to add richness and enhance the flavors before serving warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a similar texture but slightly different flavor.
- Use fresh, juicy tomatoes for the best taste; cherry tomatoes halved can be an alternative.
- To toast bread faster, a toaster or skillet can be used instead of the oven.
- For added flavor, garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
- This recipe is best enjoyed immediately while the toast is still warm.
