Description
This Strawberry Balsamic Bruschetta is a delightful appetizer combining the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, fresh basil, and creamy ricotta cheese on perfectly toasted baguette slices. It’s a quick and elegant dish perfect for entertaining or a light snack.
Ingredients
Bread and Topping
- 8-10 (½-inch) slices of French baguette
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ cups diced strawberries
- 5 fresh basil leaves, thinly julienned, plus extra for garnishing
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Pinch of sugar (optional)
Cheese
- ½ cup whole milk or part skim ricotta cheese
Topping (Optional)
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for toasting the baguette slices.
- Prepare Strawberry Mixture: In a bowl, stir together the diced strawberries, julienned basil leaves, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, and balsamic vinegar. Taste the mixture and add a pinch of sugar if you prefer it sweeter. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Toast Baguette Slices: Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush the top of each slice with extra virgin olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown and crisp.
- Prepare Ricotta Spread: While the baguette slices bake, mix the ricotta cheese with the remaining ¼ teaspoon kosher salt until well combined.
- Assemble Bruschetta: Once the baguette slices are toasted, dollop a spoonful of the ricotta spread onto each slice, spreading it gently toward the edges. Top the ricotta with the marinated strawberry mixture, garnish with additional basil leaves, and drizzle with balsamic glaze if using.
- Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of the creamy cheese, sweet and tangy strawberry topping, and crispy toasted bread. Makes 8-10 crostini.
Notes
- To make this dish more vibrant, allow the strawberry mixture to marinate longer, up to 30 minutes.
- If you cannot find balsamic glaze, you can reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until syrupy.
- This recipe can be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute ricotta with a plant-based spread or leave it off.
- Serve immediately after assembly to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
