If you’re looking for a delightful way to brighten your breakfast or lunch, this Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe is the perfect answer. It’s a blend of simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and a satisfying crunch. The creamy ricotta paired with juicy tomatoes, aromatic sesame seeds, and the richness of olive oil makes each bite an absolute joy. This toast isn’t just quick and easy to prepare; it’s a celebration of the beautiful, wholesome ingredients that can turn an everyday meal into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in making this dish shine. From the earthy, crusty bread providing structure to the fresh ricotta that offers creaminess, every component adds its own delightful touch to the overall experience.
- Crusty sourdough or whole grain bread: Choose a bread with a sturdy crust and chewy crumb for the perfect base that holds up to toppings.
- Fresh ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, ricotta adds richness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
- Ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes: Their juicy sweetness and vibrant color bring freshness and a burst of summer to each bite.
- Lightly toasted sesame seeds: These add a subtle nutty flavor and delicate crunch that elevates the texture profile.
- Extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle of fruity olive oil seals in flavors and imparts a luscious finish.
- Salt and pepper: Enhances all the ingredients, bringing out their natural goodness without overpowering.
How to Make Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice your bread thickly and toast it in the oven until it turns a gorgeous golden brown with crispy edges. This step ensures your toast offers a satisfying crunch that won’t get soggy once topped.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
While the bread is toasting, take fresh ricotta cheese and mix it gently with a pinch of salt and cracked black pepper. This seasoning helps bring out ricotta’s delicate creaminess and layers subtle savory notes for a more complex flavor.
Step 3: Slice the Tomatoes
Choose ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes and slice them into thick rounds. Thick slices keep their juiciness intact and provide a nice contrast to the soft ricotta.
Step 4: Assemble the Toast
Once the bread is perfectly toasted, spread a generous layer of the creamy ricotta mixture over each slice. Then carefully arrange the tomato slices on top, ensuring full coverage so every bite has that fresh, juicy burst.
Step 5: Add Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil
Finish by sprinkling lightly toasted sesame seeds over the tomatoes, lending a subtle crunch and nutty aroma. Lastly, drizzle extra virgin olive oil liberally to tie all the flavors together and add a silky richness that makes the toast irresistible.
How to Serve Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or a few torn mint leaves can add a wonderful herbal brightness to complement the creamy ricotta and sweet tomatoes. A few flakes of sea salt on top also lift the dish’s flavors to new heights.
Side Dishes
This toast pairs beautifully with a light side salad featuring crunchy greens, radishes, and a tangy vinaigrette. For a more substantial meal, a bowl of vegetable soup or a simple lentil salad would make excellent companions that keep things fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming brunch presentation, cut your toast into smaller fingers and serve on a wooden board with scattered sesame seeds and a small bowl of olive oil for extra dipping. Alternatively, layer the ricotta and tomato onto open-faced crostini for a sophisticated appetizer at your next get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe, it’s best to store components separately. Keep the ricotta mixture and tomato slices in airtight containers in the fridge, and toast fresh bread before assembling to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended. The tomatoes and toasted bread lose their ideal texture after freezing and thawing. Instead, prepare fresh portions for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
Reheating assembled toast may soften the crisp bread and alter flavors. If you need to reheat, do so gently by warming the bread alone in a low oven, then reassemble with fresh ricotta, tomatoes, sesame seeds, and olive oil just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While crusty sourdough or whole grain bread offers the best texture and taste, you can try multigrain, rye, or even a rustic baguette. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the toppings without becoming soggy.
Is there a substitute for fresh ricotta cheese?
If fresh ricotta isn’t available, a soft cheese like mascarpone or even cream cheese with a splash of milk can work in a pinch. They’ll maintain the creamy texture, though the flavor will be slightly different.
How important are the sesame seeds in this dish?
Sesame seeds provide a distinct nutty crunch that complements the smoothness of the ricotta and juiciness of the tomatoes. While optional, they add textural interest and depth, so try not to skip them if you can!
Can I prepare this toast vegan?
Definitely! Use a creamy vegan ricotta alternative made from tofu or nuts, and choose bread that’s dairy-free. The olive oil, tomatoes, and sesame seeds are all naturally vegan and keep the dish deliciously fresh.
What is the best type of olive oil to use?
Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil with fruity and grassy notes to enhance the dish’s fresh flavors. The oil is a key ingredient in this Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe, so a good one makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts
This Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe is one of those simple dishes that feels special every time you make it. It’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying whether you’re enjoying a casual breakfast or sharing a light lunch with friends. I encourage you to give it a try and experience how a handful of beautiful, quality ingredients can come together in such a joyful way.
Print
Ricotta & Tomato Toast with Sesame Seeds and Olive Oil Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and elegant Ricotta & Tomato Toast recipe featuring crusty sourdough bread topped with creamy fresh ricotta, juicy heirloom tomatoes, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Perfect for a quick breakfast or light snack that balances fresh flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Bread
- 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
- Toast the bread. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the slices of crusty sourdough or whole grain bread on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until they turn golden brown and crisp on the edges, about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare the ricotta mixture. In a small bowl, combine the fresh ricotta cheese with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Slice the tomatoes. Wash and slice the ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes into thick rounds, ensuring even slices for better texture on the toast.
- Assemble the toast. Spread the seasoned ricotta mixture generously on each slice of toasted bread. Layer the tomato slices neatly on top of the ricotta, covering the surface evenly.
- Finish with toppings. Sprinkle the lightly toasted sesame seeds evenly over the tomato layer. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the toast to add richness. Serve the toast warm to enjoy the combination of creamy ricotta, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy sesame seeds.
Notes
- You can substitute sourdough bread with any crusty whole grain bread of your choice.
- Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Lightly toasting sesame seeds before sprinkling enhances their nuttiness.
- For added freshness, you can garnish with fresh basil or a pinch of red chili flakes.
- If desired, season with a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra tanginess.
