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Fresh Spring Pea Ricotta Crostini

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A light and refreshing appetizer featuring creamy ricotta, sweet blanched peas, fresh mint, and zesty lemon on toasted baguette slices. Perfect for quick snacks, casual gatherings, or elegant spring entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 baguette or crusty French bread, sliced about 1/2-inch thick
  • 1 cup (250g) whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup (150g) fresh or frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: honey, for drizzling
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick slices and arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
  3. Toast the bread in the oven for 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp, flipping halfway through for even toasting.
  4. Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add peas and blanch for 1-2 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  5. In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta, blanched peas, chopped mint, and lemon zest. Stir gently to fold, keeping some peas whole. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Spoon a generous dollop of the ricotta and pea mixture onto each toasted bread slice.
  7. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and, if desired, a small drizzle of honey or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
  8. Serve immediately while the bread is still crisp and flavors are vibrant.

Notes

Blanch peas briefly to preserve sweetness and vibrant color. Flip bread slices halfway through toasting for even crispness. Fresh lemon zest is essential for bright flavor. Prepare ricotta mixture up to 4 hours ahead and keep chilled. Toast bread separately if prepping ahead to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: spring pea crostini, ricotta appetizer, mint lemon crostini, easy appetizer, spring snack, vegetarian appetizer

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/fresh-spring-pea-ricotta-crostini-recipe-easy-homemade-mint-lemon-zest-appetizer/