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Grilled Crostini with Roasted Cherries, Ricotta & Basil: A Delicious Summer Starter

As the sun shines brighter and the air fills with the sweet scent of summer, there’s no better time to indulge in light, refreshing dishes that offer a burst of flavour. One such dish is Grilled Crostini with Roasted Cherries, Ricotta, and Basil. This delightful starter combines the sweetness of roasted cherries with the creaminess of ricotta and the aromatic freshness of basil, all atop perfectly grilled bread. Ideal for al fresco dining or a cosy gathering, this dish harmoniously balances savoury and sweet, offering a taste of summer in every bite.

Ingredients

To prepare this exquisite appetizer, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 French baguette or ciabatta loaf, sliced into 1 cm thick slices
• 300g fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 250g ricotta cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Roast the Cherries
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C fan). In a mixing bowl, combine the pitted cherries, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Season with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Spread the cherries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and roast for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelised. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook — you want that lovely burst of sweetness without turning them into a compote.

2. Prepare the Crostini
While the cherries are roasting, prepare the crostini. Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Brush both sides of the bread slices with olive oil and grill until they are golden brown and crispy — about 2-3 minutes per side. This adds a delightful smoky flavour and a pleasing crunch that perfectly complements the soft ricotta and juicy cherries.

3. Assemble the Crostini
Once the cherries are done and the bread is grilled, it’s time to assemble your crostini. Start by placing a generous spoonful of ricotta on each slice of grilled bread, spreading it out to ensure every bite is luscious and creamy. Top the ricotta with a few roasted cherries, allowing the juice to soak into the bread slightly.

4. Garnish and Serve
Finish each crostini with a sprinkle of torn basil leaves and drizzle a touch of olive oil over the top for added richness. For an extra burst of flavour, you might also consider a light drizzle of balsamic glaze. Arrange your creation on a serving platter, and watch as your guests admire these vibrant, flavourful bites.

Tips for Perfect Crostini

• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fruits; figs or peaches would also work beautifully when roasted.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé, making it perfect for summer gatherings.
• Make Ahead: While best enjoyed fresh, the roasted cherries can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just warm them slightly before serving to bring back their luscious character.

Conclusion

Grilled Crostini with Roasted Cherries, Ricotta, and Basil encapsulates the essence of summer in a single bite. It celebrates seasonal produce and highlights the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in a harmonious dish. Whether served at a garden party or as a delightful appetiser for a dinner, this recipe is bound to impress and satisfy your guests’ palates. So this summer, fire up the grill and savour this delightful combination that perfectly balances sweet and savoury, crisp and creamy. Bon appétit!