Description
Enjoy a delightful Mediterranean-inspired appetizer or brunch option with Roasted Grapes on Ricotta Toasts. Sweet blistered grapes are roasted to perfection and paired with creamy, honey-scented ricotta on crisp rustic bread slices. Finished with fresh thyme and optional balsamic glaze, this elegant, easy-to-make recipe balances sweet, savory, and fresh flavors for a sophisticated yet simple treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Roasted Grapes
- 2 cups seedless red or black grapes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- Pinch of salt
Ricotta Spread
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon honey
Toast
- 4–6 slices rustic bread (sourdough or ciabatta)
- Olive oil for brushing
Optional Toppings
- Balsamic glaze
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Roast Grapes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, combine the grapes with olive oil, 1 teaspoon honey, fresh thyme leaves, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together to evenly coat the grapes. Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes until the grapes are soft and blistered but still hold their shape. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Prepare Ricotta Spread: While the grapes roast, mix the ricotta cheese with lemon zest and 1 tablespoon honey in a small bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, achieving a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the roasted grapes.
- Toast the Bread: Brush each slice of rustic bread with olive oil. Toast the bread in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until golden brown and crisp on the outside. This will provide a sturdy base to hold the ricotta and grapes.
- Assemble the Toasts: Spread a generous amount of the whipped ricotta onto each toasted bread slice. Top with warm roasted grapes. For an elegant finishing touch, drizzle balsamic glaze over the top if using, sprinkle with extra thyme leaves, and add flaky sea salt to taste.
- Serve: Serve the roasted grape ricotta toasts warm or at room temperature as a refined appetizer, brunch item, or snack that’s sure to impress.
Notes
- For an enhanced flavor, add a touch of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the ricotta mixture.
- This recipe makes a great appetizer, elegant snack, or brunch offering.
- If balsamic glaze is unavailable, a light drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar can be used instead.
- Use rustic bread varieties like sourdough or ciabatta for the best texture and flavor contrast.
