Ricotta Toasts with Pistachios (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Toast Base

01 - 10 slices French baguette
02 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
03 - ¼ cup dried parsley flakes
04 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Ricotta Spread

05 - 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
06 - ¾ teaspoon salt
07 - ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Toppings

08 - ½ cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
09 - ¼ cup honey

# Instructions:

01 - Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will give your baguette slices the perfect crisp exterior while keeping them slightly soft in the center.
02 - Take each slice of French baguette and cut it in half to create smaller, bite-sized pieces. This makes them perfect for appetizers and easier for guests to handle. Place all the bread pieces in a medium bowl.
03 - Drizzle the olive oil over the bread pieces and toss gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sprinkle the dried parsley flakes over the bread and toss again until all pieces are evenly coated with the herbs.
04 - Arrange the seasoned bread pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they don't overlap. Place in the preheated oven and toast for 4 minutes. Then flip each piece and continue toasting for another 3 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown and the surface becomes crisp.
05 - While the bread is toasting, combine the ricotta cheese with ¾ teaspoon salt and ¾ teaspoon black pepper in a small bowl. Mix well until the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the creamy cheese.
06 - Once the bread is toasted, allow it to cool slightly for a minute or two. Then spread a generous amount of the seasoned ricotta mixture onto each toast piece, creating a thick, creamy layer.
07 - Sprinkle the chopped pistachios evenly over the ricotta-topped toasts, gently pressing them in so they adhere to the creamy surface. Finish by drizzling honey over each toast, allowing it to create little pools of sweetness on top of the ricotta and pistachios.
08 - Arrange the finished toasts on a serving platter and serve immediately while still warm. The contrast between the warm, crispy toast, cool creamy ricotta, crunchy pistachios, and sweet honey creates a perfect bite that's sure to impress your guests.

# Notes:

01 - These elegant ricotta toasts balance creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory elements for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that comes together in minutes.
02 - For a more festive presentation, you can garnish with additional chopped herbs, lemon zest, or a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving.
03 - These toasts pair beautifully with sparkling wine, prosecco, or a light white wine for a sophisticated starter.