Herbed Ricotta Crostini with Roasted Peppers

There’s something special about a summer appetizer that looks fancy but takes just minutes to put together. These crostini are one of my favorite garden-to-table snacks—crispy toasted bread spread with creamy herbed ricotta, topped with marinated roasted peppers. They’re simple, colorful, and full of bold, bright flavor.

This is my go-to when I need a quick bite for company, but they also make the most delightful lunch on a slow day when I want to sit outside with something light and satisfying.

📌 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🧄 Packed with herbaceous, tangy flavor
🌿 Uses fresh summer herbs and roasted peppers
🍞 Perfect for appetizers, brunch, or snacking
🧀 Can be made ahead for easy entertaining
⏱️ Ready in 20 minutes or less

📌 Quick Reference Section

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (to toast bread)
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12 crostini
Dietary Info: Vegetarian

Key Ingredients at a Glance:
Ricotta cheese, roasted red peppers, fresh herbs, crusty bread

📌 Ingredients List

1 baguette or crusty loaf, sliced into ½” rounds
1 cup whole milk ricotta
1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for brushing)
1 garlic clove, grated or mashed
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley
½ teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup roasted red peppers, sliced thin (jarred or homemade)
Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, microgreens, or balsamic glaze

Optional Add-ins & Swaps:
Swap ricotta for whipped feta or goat cheese
Add cherry tomato halves or marinated artichokes
Top with olive tapenade or fresh arugula

📌 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Toast the Bread
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush bread slices lightly with olive oil and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 7–10 minutes until golden and crisp. Set aside to cool.
2. Mix the Ricotta
   In a bowl, combine ricotta, olive oil, garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy and well mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning.
3. Assemble the Crostini
   Spread each toasted bread slice with herbed ricotta. Top with strips of roasted pepper and an extra sprinkle of herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
4. Garnish and Serve
   Add optional toppings like red pepper flakes, balsamic glaze, or microgreens. Serve immediately or cover and chill for later.

📌 Serving & Pairing Ideas

Serve with chilled white wine or sparkling water
Pair with antipasto platters or a garden salad
Perfect as a passed appetizer or light brunch plate

📌 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Fridge: Store ricotta mixture for up to 3 days
Make-Ahead: Toast bread and prep toppings in advance; assemble just before serving
Freezing: Not recommended—ricotta doesn’t freeze well

📌 Final Thoughts

These crostini are creamy, crunchy, and herby in all the right ways—perfect for showing off your garden herbs and adding something elegant to the table. 🌿 Tag your summer boards with #SouthernSoilSunshine and let us see your twist!

Craving more garden starters? Check out our Garden Herb Hummus or Burrata Caprese with Pomegranate Molasses!

There is a fuller version of this idea in my free eBook.