Ricotta Crostini with Figs & Prosciutto

Sometimes, the simplest ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary, and that’s exactly what you get with these Ricotta Crostini with Figs & Prosciutto. Imagine crispy, golden crostini, slathered with rich, creamy ricotta cheese, and topped with sweet, juicy figs and delicate prosciutto. The balance of salty, sweet, and creamy flavors in every bite is just divine. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for an elegant appetizer, or simply treating yourself to something special, this dish delivers on all fronts. Trust me, this one’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll disappear faster than you can say “delicious!”

Why You’ll Love Ricotta Crostini with Figs & Prosciutto

This simple yet elegant recipe has so much going for it. Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for it:

Elevated Flavors: The combination of creamy ricotta, sweet figs, and savory prosciutto creates an irresistible balance of flavors. Each bite feels like a little culinary celebration!
Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and comes together in no time. It’s perfect when you need a tasty, impressive appetizer or snack without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile: Perfect for all kinds of occasions—whether you’re entertaining guests, enjoying a cozy meal at home, or even taking it to a picnic.
Light Yet Satisfying: This dish strikes the perfect balance of lightness and flavor. It’s not too heavy but still feels indulgent, making it ideal for any season.
Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of ingredients is universally loved, so it’s a guaranteed hit with both your family and friends.

Ingredients in Ricotta Crostini with Figs & Prosciutto

Let’s take a look at what makes this dish so special:

Crostini: The crunchy, golden base of this dish. You can use baguette slices, sourdough, or any crusty bread you like. Toast them until they’re crispy and golden for the perfect bite.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy, slightly sweet cheese is the star of the show, offering a rich base that contrasts beautifully with the figs and prosciutto.
Figs: Fresh, ripe figs bring a natural sweetness and subtle earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy ricotta and salty prosciutto.
Prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto adds a savory, slightly salty element that balances the sweetness of the figs. Its delicate texture melts in your mouth.
Honey (optional): A drizzle of honey on top adds an extra layer of sweetness and helps tie the whole dish together.
Fresh Thyme or Basil: A few fresh herbs bring brightness and color to the crostini. These are optional but definitely enhance the flavor profile.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil before toasting the bread adds extra richness and ensures that crisp, golden texture.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to get started? Let’s walk through the steps to create these irresistible Ricotta Crostini with Figs & Prosciutto!

Toast the Crostini:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice your baguette or other crusty bread into thin slices. Place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, making sure each slice is lightly coated. Toast in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy. If you prefer, you can also toast the bread in a skillet on medium heat until crispy on both sides.

Prepare the Ricotta:

While the bread is toasting, spoon the ricotta cheese into a bowl. You can leave it as-is for a simple, creamy base, or mix it with a little honey, lemon zest, or a pinch of salt to elevate the flavor. Taste it to make sure it’s just right.

Assemble the Crostini:

Once the crostini have cooled slightly, spread a generous layer of ricotta on each slice. Next, slice the figs into quarters or halves, depending on their size, and arrange them on top of the ricotta.

Add the Prosciutto:

Tear the prosciutto into smaller pieces and gently layer it on top of the figs. Let it drape over the crostini for that elegant, rustic feel.

Final Touches:

If you like, drizzle a little honey over the top for an extra burst of sweetness. Add a few fresh thyme or basil leaves to each crostini for a pop of color and a fragrant aroma.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve immediately as a gorgeous appetizer or snack. These crostini are best enjoyed fresh, when the bread is still crispy and the flavors are bright.

How to Serve Ricotta Crostini with Figs & Prosciutto

This crostini is perfect on its own, but you can make a meal out of it or serve it alongside other dishes for an elevated spread. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Cheese Platter: Pair with a cheese platter featuring a variety of cheeses, crackers, and fresh fruit. The crostini will complement the other flavors perfectly.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette works wonderfully to balance the richness of the crostini.
• Drinks: Serve with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light cocktail like a gin and tonic to keep things refreshing.

Additional Tips

• Make It Ahead: If you’re preparing for a party or gathering, you can toast the bread and prepare the ricotta in advance. Simply assemble the crostini right before serving to keep the bread crispy.
• Use Dried Figs: If fresh figs aren’t in season, you can use dried figs instead. Just chop them into smaller pieces to add a chewy, sweet contrast to the creamy ricotta.
• Herb Variations: Fresh basil or rosemary also works beautifully with this dish, so feel free to experiment with different herbs to suit your taste.
• Make it Vegan: For a vegan version, swap out the ricotta for a dairy-free ricotta or cashew-based spread. The figs and prosciutto can be omitted or replaced with a plant-based meat alternative.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use dried figs instead of fresh ones?
A1: Yes! Dried figs work well too. Just chop them into smaller pieces and use them as a topping. They’re a bit chewier but still delicious.

Q2: Can I make these crostini ahead of time?
A2: You can prepare the crostini and ricotta in advance, but it’s best to assemble them just before serving to keep the bread crispy.

Q3: Can I use a different type of bread for the crostini?
A3: Absolutely! You can use any kind of crusty bread you prefer, such as sourdough, ciabatta, or a baguette.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: If you have leftover crostini, store the components separately in airtight containers. Toasted bread can be kept at room temperature, while ricotta and prosciutto should be refrigerated. Assemble just before serving.

Q5: Can I use a different meat instead of prosciutto?
A5: Yes, you can use bacon, serrano ham, or even a vegetarian option like roasted vegetables or marinated tofu for a different twist.

Q6: Can I add more toppings to the crostini?
A6: Absolutely! You can experiment with toppings like balsamic glaze, nuts (such as walnuts or pistachios), or even a little crumbled goat cheese.

Q7: Can I make these crostini gluten-free?
A7: Yes, simply use gluten-free bread to make these crostini suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Q8: Can I freeze these crostini?
A8: It’s best to freeze the toasted bread separately and reheat before assembling. However, the ricotta and figs should be used fresh.

Q9: Can I add a sweet element to the dish?
A9: Yes! A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar on top of the figs adds a nice touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.

Q10: How do I make the ricotta extra creamy?
A10: For an ultra-creamy ricotta, you can blend it with a little olive oil or heavy cream. It’ll make the texture smoother and even more indulgent.

Conclusion

These Ricotta Crostini with Figs & Prosciutto are the perfect combination of flavors—creamy, sweet, savory, and just the right amount of elegance. Whether you’re preparing them for a gathering or treating yourself to something special, they’re sure to impress. Plus, they come together in no time, making them an easy yet sophisticated dish. So go ahead—make these crostini and let your taste buds celebrate the simple pleasures of life!

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