If you are searching for a simple yet extraordinary way to brighten your breakfast or lunch, this Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds & Olive Oil Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Combining creamy fresh ricotta, juicy ripe tomatoes, and the delightful crunch of toasted sesame seeds, all drizzled with fragrant extra virgin olive oil, this dish is a celebration of freshness and texture in every bite. It’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and brings together flavors that feel both comforting and sophisticated, making it perfect for any time you want to elevate your toast experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds & Olive Oil Recipe plays a starring role. They’re simple yet essential, each adding layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color to the finished dish.
- Crusty sourdough or whole grain bread: Ideal for toasting, these breads offer a crunchy base that holds up wonderfully under creamy and juicy toppings.
- Fresh ricotta cheese: Creamy, mild, and lush, ricotta adds a luscious texture that contrasts beautifully with the crisp toast.
- Ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes: Selecting the ripest tomatoes ensures bright, sweet, and acidic notes that balance the richness of ricotta.
- Lightly toasted sesame seeds: Their nutty flavor and crispy texture bring a subtle crunch and an irresistible aroma.
- Extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds fruitiness, enhances mouthfeel, and ties all flavors together harmoniously.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the depth of all the ingredients without overpowering them.
How to Make Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds & Olive Oil Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Bread to Golden Perfection
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay out your slices of crusty sourdough or whole grain bread on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until they become beautifully golden and crisp. This step ensures a firm base that provides the satisfying crunch you want in every bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Ricotta Mixture
While the bread is toasting, take fresh ricotta cheese and gently mix it with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. This simple seasoning enhances the ricotta’s natural creaminess without masking its delicate flavor, creating a luxurious spread for your toast.
Step 3: Slice Your Fresh Tomatoes
Choose ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes and slice them into thick, juicy rounds. The thickness ensures they hold their shape and juices when layered on the toast, contributing freshness and a burst of vibrant color that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Step 4: Assemble the Toast
Generously spread the seasoned ricotta mixture over each warm slice of toasted bread. Then, layer the thick tomato slices on top, making sure each piece is evenly covered to balance creaminess and acidity with every mouthful.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle lightly toasted sesame seeds across the tomato-topped toast, adding a subtle crunch and a delicate toastiness. Lastly, finish with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to bring together all the flavors with its fruity and peppery notes, making every bite glow.
How to Serve Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds & Olive Oil Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds & Olive Oil Recipe even further, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano. They bring a fresh herbal pop that complements the creamy and nutty layers perfectly. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also enhance the flavor contrast beautifully.
Side Dishes
This toast pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a simple bowl of seasonal fruit to balance the richness with freshness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a bowl of warm soup—think tomato bisque or a light vegetable broth—for a cozy combination that feels thoughtfully put together.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself, cut your toast into smaller, bite-sized pieces to create elegant crostini. Layer the toppings with a slight drizzle of balsamic reduction for added sweetness and tang. Alternatively, stack multiple layers of toast with ricotta and tomato for a rustic but eye-catching presentation that invites sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though unlikely), store the tomato slices separately from the toast to prevent sogginess. Keep the ricotta mixture refrigerated in an airtight container and assemble fresh when ready to eat for best texture and flavor.
Freezing
This Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds & Olive Oil Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing compromises the texture of the bread and the tomatoes. However, you can freeze leftover ricotta separately for up to a month, then thaw it gently when needed.
Reheating
To reheat, lightly warm the toast in a toaster oven or conventional oven to restore its crispness. Avoid microwaving as it will make the bread chewy. Add fresh tomato slices and ricotta after reheating for the freshest experience.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of ricotta?
Absolutely! While ricotta offers a unique creamy and mild flavor, fresh goat cheese or cream cheese can be interesting alternatives. Just keep in mind that ricotta’s light texture and subtle taste make it ideal for balancing the sweetness of tomatoes and nuttiness of sesame seeds in this recipe.
What kind of tomatoes work best?
Heirloom and vine-ripened tomatoes are preferred because they tend to be juicier and more flavorful, which enhances the overall taste. However, any ripe, firm tomato you enjoy will work beautifully here.
Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes! To make a vegan version, substitute ricotta with a plant-based soft cheese or blended tofu seasoned to mimic ricotta’s creaminess. Make sure the bread and sesame seeds are also vegan, then continue as usual.
Why are sesame seeds used in this recipe?
Sesame seeds add a lovely nutty flavor and a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy ricotta and juicy tomatoes. Toasting them lightly intensifies their aroma, making every bite more interesting.
Is extra virgin olive oil necessary?
While you can use any olive oil, extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor and aroma. It adds fruity, herbal notes that enhance the overall taste and richness of the dish.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about how simple ingredients can come together to create an unforgettable meal, and the Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds & Olive Oil Recipe is a perfect example. Whether you’re making a quick breakfast or a light lunch, this recipe invites you to savor fresh, wholesome flavors with every bite. I hope you give it a try and find it as delightful and satisfying as I do!
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Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds & Olive Oil Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious Ricotta & Tomato Toast featuring crusty sourdough or whole grain bread topped with creamy ricotta cheese, ripe tomatoes, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Perfect for a light breakfast or snack, this recipe combines fresh, wholesome ingredients with an easy-to-follow preparation.
Ingredients
Toast
- 2 slices crusty sourdough or whole grain bread
Ricotta Mixture
- 1/2 cup fresh ricotta cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 2 ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 tablespoon lightly toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the slices of sourdough or whole grain bread directly on the oven rack or a baking tray and toast until golden brown, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: While the bread is toasting, in a bowl, mix the fresh ricotta cheese with salt and black pepper to taste until it becomes creamy and well combined.
- Slice Tomatoes: Slice the ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes into thick rounds, ensuring they hold their shape on the toast.
- Assemble the Toast: Spread the seasoned ricotta mixture evenly over the toasted bread slices. Then layer the tomato slices on top of the ricotta.
- Add Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil: Sprinkle the lightly toasted sesame seeds over the tomato-topped toast. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil generously over the whole assembly before serving warm.
Notes
- Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Lightly toasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor; you can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
- For added freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or oregano if desired.
- This toast is best enjoyed immediately while warm to appreciate the texture contrast.
- Adjust salt and pepper in the ricotta mixture based on your taste preference.
