Crostini with Ricotta, Peas & Mint

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these crostini because they’re incredibly fresh, flavorful, and versatile. The crispy baguette provides the perfect crunch to complement the creamy ricotta, and the peas add a sweet pop of flavor. The mint and lemon elevate the dish with refreshing notes, making each bite a delightful combination of textures and tastes. It’s an easy-to-make yet sophisticated appetizer that will brighten up any occasion, and it comes together in just a few minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 bag (about 4 oz / 115 g) frozen peas, thawed (or 1 cup fresh peas)

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• Zest and juice of ½ lemon

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling

• 1 garlic clove, halved

• 12 slices baguette (about ½ inch thick)

(Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Crostini:

1. Toast the Baguette: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the slices of baguette on a baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with a little olive oil and toast in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You can also toast them in a skillet on medium heat for a quicker method.

2. Rub with Garlic: Once the crostini are toasted, rub the cut side of the garlic clove on the surface of each piece to infuse a subtle garlic flavor. Set aside.

Prepare the Toppings:

1. Peas: If using frozen peas, thaw them and drain any excess water. For fresh peas, simply blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and cool under cold running water. Mash the peas lightly with a fork, leaving some whole for texture.

2. Ricotta: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and well mixed. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Crostini:

1. Spread a generous amount of ricotta mixture on each toasted crostini.

2. Top with a spoonful of the mashed peas. Scatter a few whole peas on top for texture.

3. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with fresh mint leaves. You can tear the mint into smaller pieces for added freshness and visual appeal.

Serve:

Serve immediately and enjoy these vibrant, fresh crostini as an appetizer or a light snack.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 crostini, perfect for sharing as an appetizer for 4-6 people. Prep time is about 10 minutes, and the crostini will be ready to serve in about 20 minutes. They’re best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a short time if needed.

Variations

This dish is wonderfully adaptable, and you can make it your own with a few simple changes:

• Add cheese: If you want to add more flavor, try sprinkling some Parmesan or feta on top before serving.

• Swap the peas: You can also use broad beans, edamame, or asparagus for a slightly different twist on the recipe.

• Herb variations: While mint is a classic pairing, you can try fresh basil or thyme for a unique twist on the flavor.

• Add a drizzle of honey: For a bit of sweetness, a drizzle of honey over the ricotta and peas could complement the freshness perfectly.

Storage/Reheating

These crostini are best served immediately after assembling, as the toasted bread may lose its crispiness over time. However, you can store the ricotta and peas separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Toast the bread fresh and assemble just before serving to maintain the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen peas work perfectly in this recipe. Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing them.

Can I make the ricotta mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ricotta mixture up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to assemble the crostini fresh when you’re ready to serve them.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While ricotta is traditional for this recipe, you can substitute it with goat cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor profile. If using a firmer cheese, be sure to soften it before spreading.

Can I make these crostini gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make these crostini gluten-free by using gluten-free bread. There are many great gluten-free options available, such as rice cakes or gluten-free baguettes.

Can I add protein to these crostini?

Yes! You can top these crostini with grilled chicken, prosciutto, or smoked salmon for an added protein boost.

Conclusion

These Crostini with Ricotta, Peas & Mint are a light, fresh, and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for spring and summer. The creamy ricotta, sweet peas, and bright mint, combined with the zesty lemon, make each bite refreshing and satisfying. Simple to prepare yet elegant enough for any gathering, these crostini are sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite!