This Chili Ricotta Toast with a Pesto Parmesan Crisp & Prosciutto is the perfect brunch option!
This recipe has a little bit of everything to satisfy your taste buds: a pesto parmesan crisp with prosciutto and chili-infused ricotta on top of crispy sourdough toast. It’s a combination that hits all the right notes—salty, creamy, spicy, and full of texture. I’ve always been a fan of the classic pairing of pesto and prosciutto, so I decided to elevate it further by adding parmesan chips as a crunchy, savory topper to the toast. The result? An irresistible, flavor-packed bite that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a gourmet snack.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to make your own pesto at home. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick whirl in the food processor, you can whip up a fresh, vibrant pesto that’s bursting with herby goodness. Of course, if you’re short on time, store-bought pesto works just as well and still delivers on flavor.
To make the creamy ricotta topping, simply mix the ricotta cheese with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chili flakes. This adds a zesty kick that balances beautifully with the rich, salty notes from the parmesan and prosciutto. Spread a generous layer of this ricotta mixture on a slice of toasted sourdough. Then, drape thin slices of prosciutto over the top, followed by your homemade pesto-infused parmesan crisp. These crisps are baked to perfection, with the pesto adding a burst of flavor that makes each bite a delight.
Not only is this toast incredibly delicious, but it’s also a feast for the eyes. The vibrant green pesto, the blush pink of the prosciutto, and the golden parmesan crisps create a stunning presentation that’s perfect for entertaining guests or treating yourself to something special.
Whether you’re looking to switch up your breakfast routine, impress at a brunch gathering, or simply indulge in a tasty snack, this recipe has you covered. And if you’re a toast lover like me, don’t forget to explore my other toast creations! From sweet combinations like almond butter with honeyed figs to savory delights like avocado with smoked salmon, there’s a toast recipe to suit every craving. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to discover your new favorite. Check out my other toast recipes here!
Chili Ricotta Toast with a Pesto Parmesan Crisp & Prosciutto
Ingredients
- 1 cup grated parmesan
- 3 tbsp pesto, store bought or homemade
- Diced Calabrian chilies
- A few tbsp fresh ricotta
- Squeeze of lemon
- A few pieces of prosciutto
- Sea salt and pepper
Pesto from scratch:
- 3/4 cup basil leaves
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 3/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- sea salt and pepper
Instructions
- preheat oven to 400.
- Line parchment paper on a baking sheet and add a heaping tablespoon of parmesan. Add a little scoop of chili and then top with a little more parmesan. Repeat for as many as you want.
- Cook for about 3-5 min or until golden brown.
- Meanwhile if you are making the pesto, combine ingredients and blend in a food processor. Season to taste.
- In a small bowl, combine ricotta, chili and lemon. Season with salt and pepper.
- Coat bread in olive oil and cook for 2-3 min per side. Add ricotta spread, prosciutto and top with a pesto parm chip. Enjoy!
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