Quick Peach Bruschetta with Whipped Ricotta

Why You’ll Love This Peach Bruschetta

This recipe is the epitome of a simple yet flavorful summer appetizer. The sweet and juicy peaches bring a unique twist to the classic bruschetta, while the creamy ricotta adds a light, airy texture. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, with most of the work happening in just 30 minutes. Plus, it’s highly customizable—whether you want to adjust the sweetness, seasoning, or swap out ingredients, it’s a versatile dish that suits everyone’s tastes. Perfect for hosting on a warm summer evening, this peach bruschetta will definitely become your go-to for entertaining!

Ingredients

1 baguette, sliced thinly

¼ cup unsalted butter

4 garlic cloves, finely minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 pint chopped tomatoes

3 medium peaches, diced

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Juice of ½ lemon

A generous handful of fresh basil leaves, sliced or roughly chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare Garlic Butter and Slice Baguette

Preheat your oven to 400°F (or heat your grill to its highest setting).

Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick slices.

In a bowl, mash together butter with half of the garlic cloves using a fork. Add a pinch of salt and mix thoroughly.

Spread the garlic butter evenly on each baguette slice and arrange them on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Toast the Crostini

Place the prepared baguette slices in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until they are golden brown and crunchy.

If grilling, cook the slices for 1 to 2 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don’t burn. The goal is to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior.

Step 3: Prepare the Peach and Tomato Mixture

While the bread is toasting, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped peaches, and the remaining garlic in a bowl.

Season generously with salt and pepper.

Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice, then toss to combine.

Allow the mixture to sit and marinate while you prepare the whipped ricotta.

Step 4: Whip the Ricotta

In a food processor, blend the ricotta until smooth and creamy.

Transfer the whipped ricotta into a bowl, ready to spread on the toasted crostini.

Step 5: Assemble the Crostini

Once the crostini are toasted, spread a generous layer of the whipped ricotta on each slice of bread.

Stir fresh basil into the marinated peach and tomato mixture.

Top each crostini with a spoonful or two of the peach-tomato mixture.

For added flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired.

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 4-6 servings

Prep time: 15-20 minutes

Cook time: 15-20 minutes

Total time: 30-40 minutes

Variations

Bread Options: While a baguette is traditional, you can use any crusty bread like ciabatta, sourdough, or a country loaf.

Cheese Alternatives: If you don’t have ricotta, cream cheese or goat cheese are great substitutes. For a dairy-free option, use a cashew-based cheese spread.

Fruit Alternatives: If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines, plums, or fresh figs work beautifully. For a winter variation, try using thinly sliced pears.

Herb Substitutes: Fresh mint or oregano can replace basil if you prefer a different flavor. If using dried herbs, remember to reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the whipped ricotta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The peach-tomato mixture can be stored separately for 1-2 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh to avoid soggy bread.

Toasted Bread: Store the toasted baguette slices in a paper bag at room temperature for 1 day. To keep them longer, avoid toasting until you’re ready to serve.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare the components ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the whipped ricotta and slice the bread in advance. For the peach-tomato mixture, it’s best to assemble it an hour before serving to keep everything fresh.

2. What’s the best type of bread for this recipe?

A crusty baguette is ideal, but other sturdy breads like ciabatta or sourdough work well too. Just ensure the bread is thick enough to hold the toppings.

3. Can I use canned peaches for this recipe?

Fresh, ripe peaches are best for this recipe, but if canned peaches are all you have, make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

4. How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

To prevent soggy bread, avoid assembling the bruschetta too far in advance. The bread should be toasted just before serving, and the topping should be added right before eating.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, try using cream cheese or goat cheese for a different creamy texture. For a dairy-free version, a cashew-based cheese spread will work well.

6. Can I grill the bread instead of toasting it?

Yes, grilling the bread is a great option! Just grill each slice for 1-2 minutes until golden brown, and keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free bread instead of traditional baguette slices to make this bruschetta gluten-free.

8. How do I store the balsamic glaze?

Balsamic glaze can be stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

9. Can I make this a more substantial dish?

To make it more filling, you can add some thinly sliced prosciutto or salami on top of the crostini, or serve it with a side of arugula salad.

10. How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?

If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a drizzle of honey to the peach and tomato mixture or use riper peaches. If you prefer a more savory flavor, balance with more lemon juice or balsamic vinegar.

Conclusion

Quick Peach Bruschetta with Whipped Ricotta is a bright and refreshing summer appetizer that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavors. With minimal effort and ingredients, this dish is sure to impress your guests and quickly become a go-to favorite for warm-weather entertaining. Whether served as an appetizer or part of a light meal, this peach bruschetta will elevate any occasion!

Print