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Savory Ricotta Toast with Crispy Bacon and Fresh Tomatoes
Italian

Savory Ricotta Toast with Crispy Bacon and Fresh Tomatoes

Transform simple toast into a gourmet meal with creamy ricotta, crispy bacon, and vibrant cherry tomatoes on perfectly grilled crusty bread.
Italian

Savory Ricotta Toast with Crispy Bacon and Fresh Tomatoes

Transform simple toast into a gourmet meal with creamy ricotta, crispy bacon, and vibrant cherry tomatoes on perfectly grilled crusty bread.

25 minutes

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

easy

Level

Serves 2

Servings

25 minutes

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

easy

Level

Serves 2

Servings

This elevated ricotta toast proves that the best meals come from simple, quality ingredients. Creamy ricotta provides the perfect canvas for crispy bacon and juicy cherry tomatoes, while fresh basil adds a bright herbal note. The key is using thick-cut crusty bread that can handle all these delicious toppings without getting soggy. It’s perfect for brunch, a light dinner, or whenever you want something satisfying but not too heavy.

Ingredients

  • bacon
    2
    slices
  • diced cherry tomatoes
    ⅔
    cup
  • shredded Parmesan cheese
    1
    tablespoon
  • fresh basil
    2
    leaves
  • salt and ground black pepper
  • crusty bread
    2
    thick slices
  • olive oil
    2
    tablespoons
  • ricotta cheese
    ¼
    cup

Tips

  1. Try prosciutto instead of bacon for a more delicate flavor profile.

  2. Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.

  3. Substitute goat cheese for ricotta for a tangier taste.

  4. Use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh for a more intense flavor.

  5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for added sweetness and acidity.

Storage

This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the bread is crispy. Leftover components can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the toast should be assembled fresh each time.

Steps:

Cook the bacon

Place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned and crispy, about 10 minutes. Transfer bacon to paper towels to drain. Once cool enough to handle, crumble into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Prepare the tomato mixture

In a small bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, minced basil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine and let the flavors meld while you prepare the bread.

Grill the bread

Heat a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the bread slices generously with olive oil. Cook in the grill pan until beautiful grill marks appear and the bread is golden and toasted, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.

Assemble and serve

Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the warm toasted bread. Top with the tomato mixture and sprinkle with the crumbled bacon. Cut each toast in half diagonally and serve immediately while warm.

Nutritions

  • Calories

    305 kcal

    Energy

    1276 kJ

    Protein

    10 g

    Fat

    21 g

    Carbohydrates

    18 g

    Fiber

    2 g

    Sugars

    3 g

    Salt

    1.2 g

Recipe Variations

This recipe is easy to adapt to your taste. Try one of the variations below to change the flavor or ingredients.

  1. Try prosciutto instead of bacon for a more delicate flavor profile.

  2. Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.

  3. Substitute goat cheese for ricotta for a tangier taste.

  4. Use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh for a more intense flavor.

  5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for added sweetness and acidity.

FAQ

Yes! Simply omit the bacon and add extra Parmesan cheese or try roasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
Use thick-cut crusty bread like sourdough, ciabatta, or artisan bread that can support the toppings without getting soggy.
You can cook the bacon and prepare the tomato mixture a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the toast fresh when ready to serve.
Make sure to toast the bread until it’s golden and crispy, and serve immediately after assembling. The ricotta acts as a barrier between the bread and juicy tomatoes.