Imagine a stunning appetizer that combines the crisp elegance of Italian-inspired crostini with the vibrant, peppery crunch of fresh red radishes. This Red Radish Crostini with Lemon Ricotta is not just a recipe—it's a culinary masterpiece that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience that will wow your guests and elevate your entertaining skills. With its delicate balance of textures and bright, zesty flavors, this dish promises to be the star of any gathering, from casual brunches to sophisticated dinner parties.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Baguette
- Ricotta cheese
- Lemon zest
- Lemon juice
- Red radishes
- Fresh chives
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces, creating elegant oval-shaped crostini.
- Arrange baguette slices on a large baking sheet. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil, ensuring even coverage. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Toast the baguette slices in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp. Remove and let cool on a wire rack.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, freshly grated lemon zest, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and well-incorporated.
- Finely slice red radishes using a sharp knife or mandoline, creating thin, translucent rounds that will provide a crisp texture.
- Mince fresh chives into small, delicate pieces for garnishing.
- Spread a generous layer of the lemon-infused ricotta onto each toasted crostini.
- Arrange radish slices artfully on top of the ricotta, slightly overlapping for visual appeal.
- Sprinkle minced chives over the crostini and finish with a light drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the crostini and the freshness of the ingredients.
Tips
- Choose a high-quality baguette with a good crust for the best crostini texture.
- Use room temperature ricotta for smoother, easier spreading.
- Slice radishes as thin as possible for the most delicate presentation.
- Toast the baguette slices just until golden to maintain a crisp texture without burning.
- Prepare the ricotta mixture and slice radishes just before serving to maintain freshness.
- For extra flavor, try adding a small pinch of lemon zest or fresh herbs to the olive oil before brushing the baguette.
- If you don't have a mandoline, use a very sharp knife to slice radishes uniformly.
- Serve immediately after assembling to keep the crostini crisp and prevent sogginess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
