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Balsamic roasted grape and lemon ricotta crostini

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6 people

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb seedless red or black grapes
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for the baguette
  • 1 fresh baguette, sliced diagonally, into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest
  • honey, for drizzling
  • fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
  • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a parchment-lined baking sheet, toss the grapes with 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, the balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Spread them in an even layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the grapes are soft, caramelized, and their skins begin to pop. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. While the grapes are roasting, combine the ricotta cheese and lemon zest in a small bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and stir until smooth and well combined. For an extra creamy texture, you can whip the mixture using a hand mixer for 1 minute.
  3. Decrease the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a separate baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil on both sides. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
  4. Spread a generous amount of the lemon ricotta mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Top with a few of the warm roasted grapes and their juices. Finish with a drizzle of honey, an optional sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves, and flaky sea salt and cracked black pepper if desired. Serve immediately.