Description
These Roasted Grapes on Ricotta Toasts are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for an elegant appetizer. Juicy, caramelized grapes are roasted with fresh thyme and paired with creamy, honey-sweetened ricotta on golden toasted baguette slices. Garnished with fresh thyme, these toasts offer a sophisticated Mediterranean-inspired bite that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Roasted Grapes
- 2 cups seedless red or black grapes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Ricotta Spread
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon honey (plus more for drizzling)
Toasts
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (for toasting)
Instructions
- Preheat and Roast Grapes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the grapes with olive oil, fresh thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper on a baking sheet. Spread them out evenly and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until the grapes become soft, blistered, and slightly caramelized, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Toast the Baguette Slices: While the grapes are roasting, toast the baguette slices. Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the slices with butter or olive oil until they are golden and crisp. Alternatively, place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until nicely crisped.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, gently mix the ricotta cheese with honey until smooth and creamy. This adds a subtle sweetness that complements the roasted grapes perfectly.
- Assemble the Toasts: Once the baguette slices have cooled slightly, spread a generous layer of the honey-ricotta mixture on each piece. Top with a spoonful of the warm roasted grapes. Drizzle additional honey over the toasts for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish each toast with fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic finish. Serve these toasts immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm grapes and creamy ricotta atop crisp bread.
Notes
- Use whipped ricotta for a lighter, fluffier texture if preferred.
- Swap grapes for seasonal figs or cherries for variety.
- Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or crushed walnuts to enhance texture and flavor contrast.
