Print

Peach Ricotta Bruschetta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 100 reviews

This Peach Bruschetta with Whipped Ricotta is a delightful and elegant appetizer combining creamy, airy ricotta cheese with fresh, luscious peaches, vibrant red onion, and fragrant basil. The toasted baguette slices add a satisfying crunch, while the drizzle of balsamic glaze and olive oil enhances the sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for summer gatherings or an easy yet sophisticated starter.

Ingredients

Whipped Ricotta

  • 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese, drained well
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Baguette Toast

  • 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling

Peach Bruschetta Topping

  • 2 ripe but firm peaches, pitted and diced
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Drain the Ricotta: Place the ricotta in a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a paper towel. Let it drain in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally an hour, to remove excess moisture and achieve a creamier texture.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the drained ricotta, heavy cream, honey, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Whip it Good: Process the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until smooth, light, and airy. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even whipping.
  4. Taste and Adjust: Sample the whipped ricotta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or honey if desired.
  5. Chill (Optional): For best flavor melding, refrigerate the whipped ricotta for 30 minutes before assembling.
  6. Prep the Peaches: Wash, pit, and dice the peaches into small, even pieces to ensure balanced bites.
  7. Slice the Red Onion: Thinly slice the red onion. Soak slices in cold water for 10 minutes if you prefer a milder onion flavor, then drain well.
  8. Chop the Basil: Roughly chop the fresh basil leaves for fresh herbaceous notes.
  9. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the diced peaches, sliced red onion, and chopped basil together.
  10. Dress it Up: Drizzle the peach mixture with 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  11. Season to Perfection: Season the peach topping with salt and pepper to taste.
  12. Let it Sit: Allow the peach mixture to marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes, up to an hour, to deepen flavors.
  13. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for toasting the baguette.
  14. Slice the Baguette: Cut the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds, suitable for holding the toppings.
  15. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush each baguette slice with olive oil for a golden, crispy finish.
  16. Toast: Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes, until golden brown and crisp.
  17. Optional Garlic Rub: While warm, gently rub each toasted baguette slice with a peeled garlic clove for extra flavor.
  18. Spread the Ricotta: Generously spread the whipped ricotta onto each toasted baguette round.
  19. Top with Peach Mixture: Spoon the prepared peach bruschetta topping over the whipped ricotta layer.
  20. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Add a final light drizzle of balsamic glaze on top of each bruschetta for sweetness and acidity.
  21. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with a few extra fresh basil leaves to brighten presentation and flavor.
  22. Serve Immediately: Serve the bruschetta right away to enjoy the contrast of creamy, crunchy, and fresh textures.

Notes

  • Draining the ricotta is key for achieving the perfect whipped texture—don’t skip this step.
  • If you prefer a vegan version, substitute ricotta with a plant-based cheese alternative and honey with agave syrup.
  • You can prepare the peach topping a few hours in advance and refrigerate; just bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Adjust the baking time for the baguette slices depending on your oven and preferred crispiness.
  • For added depth, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the topping for a subtle kick.