Plum & Ricotta Toast
A beautiful and delicious snack or appetizer, this Plum & Ricotta Toast combines creamy whole-milk ricotta with sweet, slightly tart plum slices for a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, finished with a drizzle of honey and a crack of black pepper.
For 1 serving
Prepare the plum: Wash the plum thoroughly, then slice it thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) using a sharp knife. Discard the pit.
Toast the bread: Place the sourdough slices in a toaster or under a broiler until golden brown and crisp, but still slightly soft in the center. This should take 2-3 minutes.
Assemble the base: While the toast is still warm, spread an even, generous layer of whole milk ricotta cheese over each slice, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
Arrange the plums: Neatly arrange the thin plum slices over the ricotta cheese on both pieces of toast, slightly overlapping them for an appealing presentation.
Finish and serve: Drizzle each toast with honey (or maple syrup). Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of flaky sea salt, if desired. Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose Ripe Plums: Select plums that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy, indicating peak sweetness and juiciness for the best flavor.
- 2Quality Ricotta Matters: Opt for fresh, whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest texture and richest flavor. Avoid low-fat versions if possible, as they can be watery.
- 3Toast to Perfection: Don't over-toast the bread; you want it golden and crisp on the outside but still with a bit of chew, providing a good textural contrast to the creamy ricotta.
- 4Balance with Salt: A tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the sweetness of the plum and honey, creating a more complex and well-rounded flavor profile.
Adapt it for your goals.
Sweetener Swap
Use agave nectar, date syrup, or a sprinkle of brown sugar instead of honey for a different sweetness profile.
Cheese AlternativeCheese Alternative
Try goat cheese for a tangier profile, mascarpone for an even richer, creamier experience, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Fruit MedleyFruit Medley
Experiment with other seasonal fruits like figs, peaches, berries, or even thinly sliced apples or pears for varied flavors and textures.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Plums are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals and may reduce inflammation.
Good Source of Fiber
The plums and whole-grain bread contribute dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health, promoting regularity, and helping to maintain satiety.
Protein and Calcium Boost
Ricotta cheese provides a good source of protein, vital for muscle repair and growth, and calcium, which is crucial for strong bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
It's best to assemble and serve Plum & Ricotta Toast immediately to prevent the toast from getting soggy and to enjoy the fresh textures. However, you can slice the plums and toast the bread a little in advance, keeping them separate until just before serving.
