Crostini with Roasted Cherries, Ricotta & Basil

These crostinis are delicious and the perfect appetizer when hosting this summer!

Ingredients:

• 1 French baguette, cut diagonally into ½-inch slices

• 4 cups fresh dark sweet cherries, pitted and halved

• 1 tablespoon honey (or pure maple syrup)

• 8 ounces whole milk ricotta

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Roast the cherries:
  Preheat oven to medium-high (around 400°F).
  Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and roast cherries until tender and slightly caramelized (about 15–20 minutes).

• Mix the ricotta:
  In a medium bowl, stir together the ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

• Grill the crostini:
  Brush each bread slice with olive oil and grill or toast until golden brown.
  Top with whipped ricotta, roasted cherries, and finish with basil or arugula.

Make-ahead tips

• Roast cherries ahead and store in the fridge

• Mix ricotta filling in advance

• Toast baguette slices and store in an airtight container

• Prep basil just before serving for freshness