This Lemon & Chive Ricotta Bruschetta is a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors in just 10 minutes. Creamy ricotta is brightened with zesty lemon and fragrant chives, creating a luscious spread that’s both light and indulgent. Toasted bread adds a satisfying crunch, making every bite a perfect balance of textures. It’s a quick yet elegant dish that’s ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
With only 5 minutes of prep and 5 minutes of cooking, this recipe is as effortless as it is delicious. The tangy lemon cuts through the richness of the ricotta, while the chives bring a subtle, savory depth. Whether served as an appetizer or a snack, it’s a refreshing way to elevate your day with minimal effort. Simple, fresh, and utterly irresistible—this bruschetta is a must-try.
Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients
- 6-8 slices whole grain bread (or substitute with sourdough or baguette)
- 1 garlic clove (half for rubbing bread, half minced for ricotta mixture)
- 1 tomato, sliced (use heirloom for extra flavor)
- ½ cup fresh, high-quality ricotta cheese (substitute with goat cheese for a tangier twist)
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best results)
- ½-1 teaspoon lemon zest (use a microplane for fine zest)
- 1-2 teaspoons honey (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives (or substitute with green onions)
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Sea salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
- Basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Sprouts (optional, for garnish)
Simple Steps to Delicious Bruschetta
- Toast the bread: Drizzle bread slices with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt. Toast under the broiler or on a grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden and crisp.
- Infuse with garlic: Slice the garlic clove in half. Once the bread is toasted, rub the open side of the garlic over the surface of each slice. Set aside.
- Prepare the tomato: Slice the tomato and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let it sit for a few minutes to enhance flavor.
- Make the ricotta mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, honey, chives, and pinches of salt and pepper. Mix well and taste, adjusting seasonings as needed.
- Assemble: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the toasted bread. Top with sliced tomato, chopped basil, and sprouts for a fresh finish.
- Serve: Drizzle with a little extra olive oil if desired, and enjoy immediately!
Creative Toppings & Sauce Ideas
Elevate your Lemon & Chive Ricotta Bruschetta with fun toppings! Try adding roasted cherry tomatoes for a sweet, caramelized flavor or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for tangy depth. For a creamy twist, mix a dollop of pesto into the ricotta or sprinkle with crumbled feta for extra saltiness. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley also make great alternatives to basil.
Perfect Pairings for Serving
This bruschetta shines as a light appetizer or snack. Pair it with a refreshing arugula salad or a bowl of olive oil-marinated olives for a Mediterranean-inspired spread. It’s also a great companion to a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing touch.
Quick Storage & Reheating Tips
Store the ricotta mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the toasted bread slices separate to maintain their crunch. If needed, reheat the bread in a toaster or oven for a few minutes before assembling. Avoid freezing, as the ricotta may lose its creamy texture.
Easy Recipe Variations
Switch things up by using goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangier flavor or swap the whole grain bread for baguette slices or gluten-free options. For a vegan twist, try a plant-based ricotta and replace honey with maple syrup. Add a kick with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika.
Time-Saving Hacks
Save time by prepping the ricotta mixture up to a day ahead. Use pre-sliced bread or toast it in batches while you chop the tomatoes and herbs. If you’re short on time, skip rubbing the bread with garlic and simply mix the minced garlic into the ricotta for a similar flavor boost.
Lemon & Chive Ricotta Bruschetta
Ingredients
- 6-8 slices whole grain bread
- 1 clove garlic use half to rub bread with, mince other half for ricotta mixture
- 1 tomato
- ½ cup fresh, high quality ricotta cheese
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ½-1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1-2 teaspoons honey
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- Extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling
- Sea salt and fresh black pepper
- Basil chopped
- Sprouts
Instructions
- Drizzle the bread slices with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt. Toast under the broiler, or grill.
- Slice garlic clove in half. Once the bread is nicely toasted, rub it with the open side of the garlic. Set aside.
- Slice the tomato, sprinkle it with some salt, and set aside.
- Mix together the ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, honey, chives, and pinches of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Assemble and top with chopped basil and sprouts.