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Vibrant Spring Pea Crostini with Ricotta

spring pea crostini with ricotta - featured image

A fresh and easy appetizer featuring a creamy ricotta and sweet pea spread on toasted baguette slices, perfect for spring gatherings and quick entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (150g) fresh peas, shelled (or frozen peas, thawed)
  • 1 cup (240g) whole milk ricotta cheese
  • A handful of fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
  • Zest and juice of half a lemon
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 loaf baguette or rustic bread, sliced into ½-inch (1.3 cm) thick rounds, toasted until golden and crisp
  • Optional: drizzle of honey or sprinkle of chili flakes

Instructions

  1. If using fresh peas, bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add peas and blanch for 2 minutes until bright green and tender. Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking and keep color vibrant. If using frozen peas, thaw and drain well.
  2. In a food processor, combine peas, ricotta cheese, lemon zest from half a lemon, and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Pulse until smooth but still slightly textured, about 20-30 seconds.
  3. Add chopped fresh mint, juice of half a lemon, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the blended mixture. Pulse a few times to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice baguette into ½-inch thick rounds. Place on a baking sheet in a single layer. Optionally brush lightly with olive oil. Toast for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crunchy.
  5. Spread a generous spoonful of the pea-ricotta mixture onto each toasted bread slice. Optionally drizzle with honey or sprinkle chili flakes.
  6. Arrange on a platter and garnish with extra mint leaves or lemon zest. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not over-blend the pea and ricotta mixture to maintain a creamy but textured spread. Toast bread just before serving to keep it crisp. Frozen peas can be used if fresh are unavailable; thaw and drain well. Optionally add honey or chili flakes for sweetness or heat. For gluten-free, use gluten-free bread or crackers.

Nutrition

Keywords: spring pea crostini, ricotta appetizer, easy appetizers, fresh pea spread, spring recipes, vegetarian appetizers