• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Urban Foodie Kitchen

Small Scale Recipes

  • Home
  • Recipe Index
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast & Brunch
    • Desserts
    • Drinks & Cocktails
    • Grilling
    • Main Dishes
      • Pasta & Grains
      • Salads
      • Seafood
    • Side Dishes
    • Soups & Chilis
    • Vegetarian
  • About Me
    • Work with Me
    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclosures, Terms & Disclaimers
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipe Index
  • Work with Me
  • Let's Connect!

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • ×

    Home > Recipes > Seasonal > Summer recipes

    Roasted Tomato Ricotta Crostini

    Published: June 19, 2022 By Urban Foodie Kitchen Last Updated: June 21, 2022 16 Comments

    Skip to Recipe Print Recipe

    These Roasted Tomato Crostini are tasty little toasts -- an easy party appetizer that is sure to impress your guests!

    Toasted bread slices topped with ricotta and roasted tomatoes

    This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product via these links, I will earn a small commission which helps to keep this blog running!

    Sometimes warm summer days call for somewhat impromptu gatherings! These Roasted Tomato Ricotta Crostini are a great solution for a last-minute appetizer, as they only take a few ingredients and are pretty easy to make.  Serve them with this Rosé Sangria, or just a still Rosé, for a great pairing! 

    This is the perfect recipe to add to your summer entertaining recipe collection. Read on to learn more about how to make these Roasted Tomato Crostini, or jump straight to the recipe to start cooking!

    Contents:
    • Recipe Highlights
    • Recipe Ingredients
    • How to make this recipe
    • Additional notes from the kitchen
    • Recommendations for this recipe
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Roasted Tomato Ricotta Crostini

    Recipe Highlights

    • This recipe is ideal for summer entertaining, either a backyard BBQ or a picnic in the park.
    • These crostini have only 6 ingredients and take less than 15 minutes to make.
    • The entire recipe is cooked on the grill, so no heating up the kitchen on a hot summer day!

    Recipe Ingredients

    • Tomatoes: Any type of slightly sweet grape or cherry tomato works for this recipe. Later in summer, it's a great way to garden tomatoes!
    • Basil: Since you are using it as part of the pre-grill seasoning, use dried basil for this recipe. You can add a bit of fresh basil as an extra garnish just before serving.
    • Bread: I recommend using a baguette as you don't want the slices of bread to be too large. If you can get it presliced from the bakery, that's ideal, as the slices will all be the same thickness.
    • Ricotta: Either whole-milk or part-skim works.
    • Balsamic glaze: See the link below for the brand I currently use. I think you can find it at most major grocery store chains.
    • Olive oil
    Close up shot of sliced red, orange and yellow grape tomatoes

    How to make this recipe

    One a few easy steps are needed to pull this recipe together:

    Grill the tomatoes. Start by tossing the sliced tomatoes with some dried basil and olive oil. Then add them to a grill pan and grill them for about 6 minutes.

    Grill the bread. If your grill is large enough, you can grill the bread and the tomatoes at the same time. You'll brush one side of each slice with oil and grill with the oiled side on the grill grates.

    Assemble. Once everything is cooked it's a quick assembly. Spread the ricotta on the toasted bread, top with tomatoes, and then drizzle a little balsamic glaze on top and you are ready to serve.

    Entertaining tip: I assemble a platter of these right before I'm ready to serve and then reserve the rest of the ingredients until guests are ready for more. This way you don't end up with soggy bread.

    Close up shot of a slice of grilled bread topped with ricotta, roasted tomatoes and balsamic glaze

    Additional notes from the kitchen

    What's the difference between crostini and bruschetta?

    Technically bruschetta is focused on the bread and olive oil, and crostini, which means little toasts, is focused on the topping. The two are often used interchangeably and they are generally both delicious!

    How do I store leftovers?

    You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for a day or so if preassembled. If you have not already assembled the toasts, I'd recommend keeping everything separate until you are ready to use it, as the bread will get a bit soggy from the ricotta and tomatoes.

    White tray filled with roasted tomato crostini

    Recommendations for this recipe

    Balsamic Glaze – Just like with balsamic vinegar, the higher the quality of the vinegar, the more expensive it is, so if you are willing to spend a little more you can usually find several types of glaze at a specialty Italian store. Whole Foods also carries it. The link is for the brand I'm currently using.

    Olive Oil Mister – An olive oil mister is a super handy kitchen tool. It can be used for spraying olive oil on the bread before grilling, like in this recipe. As well as lightly coating salads and other veggies with oil. I've tried many different types and this is the one I'm currently using. They do tend to get clogged with oil after several months of use, so it's a tool that does need to be replaced periodically.

    Veggie Grill Pan – If you are a fan of grilling veggies, a pan like this one is a must-have.  The non-stick surface keeps things from sticking and holes are small enough to keep almost all types of veggies from falling through.

    Serving Suggestions

    If you are looking to create a great menu for your next summer party, I'd include:

    Appetizers and Snacks: Cowboy Caviar

    Main Courses: Pulled Pork Sliders or Southwestern Turkey Burger Sliders

    Salads and Sides: Tortellini Pasta Salad or Mexican Street Corn Salad

    Desserts: Mini Lemon Cheesecakes or Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar

    While this recipe is designed as a party appetizer it also makes a great light lunch or a tasty afternoon snack!


    Overhead shot of roasted tomato crostini on a white tray

    Roasted Tomato Ricotta Crostini

    Author: Kathryn | Urban Foodie Kitchen
    These tasty little toasts are an easy party appetizer that is sure to impress your guests!
    5 from 6 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 7 mins
    Cook Time 6 mins
    Total Time 13 mins
    Course Appetizers
    Cuisine Italian
    Servings 20 crostini
    Calories 180 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 40 - 45 grape or other small sweet tomatoes, (less than a pint, halved)
    • ½ teaspoon dried basil
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 20 baguette slices, about half a baguette
    • 1 cup whole milk ricotta
    • balsamic glaze, to taste
    • fresh basil , optional

    Instructions
     

    • Heat the grill. Pre-heat your grill to medium-low heat.
    • Prepare the tomatoes. Add tomatoes, basil and olive oil to a small mixing bowl. Toss to coat.
    • Prepare the bread. Brush or spray one side of each baguette slice with olive oil.
    • Grill. Place a veggie grilling pan or basket on the grill and add the tomatoes. Place the baguette slices oil side face down on the grill. Cook both tomatoes and baguette for 6 minutes, until baguette is golden brown. Remove both from grill.
    • Assemble. Place the toasted baguette slices on a serving tray. Top with ricotta cheese and tomato (about 2 tomato pieces per slice). Drizzle with balsamic glaze and some fresh basil ribbons (if desired). Serve immediately.

    Notes

    If you don't have a veggie grilling pan you can place the tomatoes on aluminum foil on the grill.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 2crostiniCalories: 180kcal
    Keywords : summer appetizer
    Did you make this recipe?Tag @urbanfoodiekitchen on Instagram or hashtag it #urbanfoodiekitchen

    This post was originally published in August 2016. It was updated in June 2022 with some new information and photos. No changes were made to the original recipe.

    More Recipes You Might Like:

    • Healthy Cowboy Caviar in a light blue bowl with multigrain tortilla chips
      Healthy Cowboy Caviar
    • Overhead shot of popcorn in a light blue bowl on a darker blue background
      Bacon Jalapeño Popcorn
    • Mini Crab Mac & Cheese Bites on a metal pan
      Crab Mac & Cheese Bites
    • Overhead shot of a loaf of sourdough bread, cut into cubes and stuffed with cheese and mushrooms
      Cheesy Swiss & Mushroom Pull-Apart Bread

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. michele says

      October 17, 2017 at 7:39 pm

      5 stars
      Ive never thought to use ricotta on a toast like that! Im an idiot because that is flipping brilliant! thanks so much for the great idea!

      Reply
    2. Michelle says

      October 18, 2017 at 10:29 am

      5 stars
      Simple and classy appetizer! I love it. The flavors of the tomatoes, ricotta and balsamic glaze make this absolutely heaven. I'm sure your guests were asking for more. Fantastic.

      Reply
    3. Jenni LeBaron says

      October 18, 2017 at 11:35 am

      These are such a great option for a dinner party or when you would like to serve a small bite to eat before the main course. Love anything with ricotta!

      Reply
    4. eLCitraKale@myhomediaryinturkey says

      October 18, 2017 at 12:56 pm

      quick and easy meal is always my choice when somebody would come over to my house.. And you give me such a great and yummy idea to make one.

      Reply
    5. Nicoletta @sugarlovespices says

      October 20, 2017 at 7:51 am

      I like appetizers that are so easy to make, quick and yet packed with a lot of flavors! And I like the pairing with a nice rosé!

      Reply
    6. Tina says

      October 20, 2017 at 1:43 pm

      5 stars
      I love crostini and I never thought to use ricotta. This is great! Thanks for sharing:)

      Reply
    7. Abby @ WinsteadWandering says

      October 20, 2017 at 7:53 pm

      I'm game for anything with bread, cheese, and balsamic. I'll take a plateful, please!

      Reply
    8. Claire @ The Simple, Sweet Life says

      October 22, 2017 at 12:11 pm

      I LOVE last minute appetizers. No matter what, they always seem to be the thing I forget to plan. I'll definitely keep these in mind the next time I'm entertaining.

      Reply
    9. Christine says

      October 22, 2017 at 4:53 pm

      I'm hosting Thanksgiving this year and think that these would be an amazing appetizer. My family would absolutely love them!

      Reply
    10. Amanda says

      October 23, 2017 at 6:21 am

      Roasted tomatoes are SO delicious, and I love that you've paired them with creamy ricotta and sweet-tangy balsamic. What a great and easy appetizer for the upcoming entertaining season.

      Reply
      • FoodieGirlChicago says

        October 29, 2017 at 10:57 am

        Thanks Amanda. I'm a fan of ricotta and balsamic - so many possibilities!

        Reply
    11. Kate says

      October 23, 2017 at 10:51 am

      All of these flavors sound soooo good! I love balsamic with tomatoes. So delicious!

      Reply
    12. Jere Cassidy says

      June 02, 2021 at 1:13 pm

      5 stars
      I have discovered how much I love ricotta cheese (not just in lasagne) so I am glad to have your crostini recipe for something new to try. I love how easy this appetizer is.

      Reply
      • Urban Foodie Kitchen says

        June 20, 2021 at 7:42 am

        Thanks Jere! It's one of my favorites for summer parties.

        Reply
    13. Amy Liu Dong says

      June 24, 2022 at 8:51 am

      5 stars
      I love everything about this recipe, it is so easy and delicious!

      Reply
    14. Ann says

      June 26, 2022 at 1:29 pm

      5 stars
      I have made something similar as an appetizer for holiday gatherings. I love the look of your's, so definitely following your recipe next time!

      Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Welcome to Urban Foodie Kitchen (formerly FoodieGirlChicago)! I'm Kathryn and I love all things involving food and wine! More about me...

    Trending Posts

    • Whole grain toast topped with ricotta, avocado and a runny egg
      The Ultimate Ricotta Avocado Toast
    • Close up of two crab cakes staked on a plate drizzled with spicy aioli
      Air Fryer Crab Cakes with Spicy Aioli + Lemon Vinaigrette
    • Grilled pork tenderloin glazed with an apricot sauce
      Grilled Apricot Glazed Pork Tenderloin
    • Caramelized onion frittata in a grey cast iron pan
      Caramelized Onion Frittata

    Free eBook!

    Subscribe and receive my most popular recipes compiled into an ebook for easy reference!

    Sign Up Here

    Holiday Recipes!

    • Orange cinnamon rolls in a baking pan drizzled with glaze
      Orange Cinnamon Rolls
    • Close up of brownies topped with cream cheese frosting and candy cane bits
      Peppermint Brownies
    • Pieces of chocolate bark in a red holiday gift tin
      Dark Chocolate Bark with Candied Orange Peel
    • Sausage, egg & cheese breakfast casserole shot from above
      Make-Ahead Christmas Breakfast Casserole

    Trending Posts

    • Whole grain toast topped with ricotta, avocado and a runny egg
      The Ultimate Ricotta Avocado Toast
    • Close up of two crab cakes staked on a plate drizzled with spicy aioli
      Air Fryer Crab Cakes with Spicy Aioli + Lemon Vinaigrette
    • Grilled pork tenderloin glazed with an apricot sauce
      Grilled Apricot Glazed Pork Tenderloin
    • Caramelized onion frittata in a grey cast iron pan
      Caramelized Onion Frittata

    Free eBook!

    Subscribe and receive my most popular recipes compiled into an ebook for easy reference!

    Sign Up Here

    Holiday Recipes!

    • Orange cinnamon rolls in a baking pan drizzled with glaze
      Orange Cinnamon Rolls
    • Close up of brownies topped with cream cheese frosting and candy cane bits
      Peppermint Brownies
    • Pieces of chocolate bark in a red holiday gift tin
      Dark Chocolate Bark with Candied Orange Peel
    • Sausage, egg & cheese breakfast casserole shot from above
      Make-Ahead Christmas Breakfast Casserole

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    Resources

    • Recipe Index
    • Shop

    Newsletter

    • Sign up! for emails and updates

    About

    • About Kathryn
    • Work with Me

    Urban Foodie Kitchen is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

    © 2023 URBAN FOODIE KITCHEN · PRIVACY POLICY  · DISCLAIMERS + DISCLOSURES · COOKIE POLICY