Toasted Baguette Delightful Toppings and Serving Ideas

Ingredients

• 1 French baguette sliced diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• to taste salt and pepper
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• optional a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped basil, parsley, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and set aside.
3. Place the halved cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Roast the cherry tomatoes in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are slightly caramelized and softened.
5. While the tomatoes are roasting, arrange the sliced baguette on another baking sheet. Brush each side lightly with olive oil.
6. Toast the baguette slices in the oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp.
7. Once the baguette and tomatoes are ready, remove both from the oven.
8. Spread a generous spoonful of the herbed ricotta mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
9. Top the ricotta with the roasted cherry tomatoes. For a kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!