Savory Cranberry Ricotta Toast with Prosciutto and Fresh Sage: The Perfect Holiday Appetizer

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When it comes to holiday gatherings or casual brunches, the perfect appetizer can set the tone for the entire meal. If you’re looking for something that brings together the richness of savory flavors with the freshness of seasonal ingredients, look no further than Savory Cranberry Ricotta Toast with Prosciutto and Fresh Sage. This recipe combines the creaminess of ricotta, the tartness of homemade cranberry jam, and the saltiness of prosciutto, all balanced by the herbal touch of fresh sage. It’s a bite-sized indulgence that can transform any occasion into something special.

Why You’ll Love Savory Cranberry Ricotta Toast with Prosciutto

Unique Flavor Profile

The beauty of this savory cranberry ricotta toast lies in its combination of flavors. The tangy-sweet homemade cranberry jam pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy ricotta, while the thin slices of prosciutto add a savory element that ties it all together. Fresh sage sprinkled over the top introduces a hint of earthiness, creating a perfect harmony of taste.

Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering, brunch, or as a fun snack, this recipe is sure to become a crowd favorite. The great part? It doesn’t require advanced cooking skills, and the results are nothing short of impressive.

Versatility for Every Occasion

This dish is wonderfully versatile. You can serve it as an appetizer at your next dinner party, or even as a brunch option for your friends and family. It’s also perfect for a casual evening snack. If you’re looking for something elegant but easy to prepare, Savory Cranberry Ricotta Toast with Prosciutto delivers just that.

The recipe’s versatility also makes it an excellent option for the holiday season. It’s festive without being overly complicated and brings a touch of sophistication to your spread.

Balanced Yet Decadent

While this toast is certainly indulgent, it manages to strike a delicate balance between rich and refreshing. The creamy ricotta is balanced by the tartness of the cranberry jam, and the prosciutto provides a salty contrast to the sweet, earthy flavors. The fresh lemon zest and sage finish the dish with bright, fragrant notes that keep each bite from feeling too heavy.

For those who want a taste of luxury without the guilt, this toast fits the bill perfectly.

Ingredients for Savory Cranberry Ricotta Toast with Prosciutto

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing out the best in the others. Below are the ingredients you’ll need to make your savory cranberry ricotta toast.

Table: Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh cranberries	12 oz
Light brown sugar	½ cup
Water	¼ cup
Cinnamon sticks	2
Star anise pod	1
Fennel seeds	½ tsp
Lemon zest	1 tsp + more for topping
Lemon juice	2 tbsp
Kosher salt	To taste
Olive oil	For toasting
Crusty bread (sourdough/Italian)	8 slices, ¾-inch thick
Whole milk ricotta cheese	1 cup
Honey	1 tbsp
Fresh sage (chopped)	1 tbsp
Freshly cracked black pepper	To taste
Prosciutto (thinly sliced)	4 oz

Each of these ingredients works together to create the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. The cranberry jam forms the base of the dish’s flavor, while the toasted bread provides a satisfying crunch. The ricotta, honey, and sage bring a creamy, herbaceous quality that complements the richness of the prosciutto.

Ingredient Notes:

• Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are essential for this recipe, as they provide that signature tartness. You can make the cranberry jam ahead of time to save on preparation time.
• Ricotta: Opt for whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with goat cheese or mascarpone for a unique twist.
• Prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto adds a salty richness to the dish. If you’re looking for a substitute, try smoked salmon for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Savory Cranberry Ricotta Toast

Making this toast is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish in no time.

Step 1 – Prepare the Cranberry Jam

The first step in making Savory Cranberry Ricotta Toast is to create the cranberry jam. This homemade jam is what sets your dish apart and provides that burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory elements.

1. In a 2-quart saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, light brown sugar, water, cinnamon sticks, star anise, fennel seeds, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring every so often, until it thickens to a jam-like consistency.
4. Remove from heat and let the cranberry jam cool down. You can prepare the jam ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the toasts.

Step 2 – Toast the Bread

While the cranberry jam cools, it’s time to prepare the bread.

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough olive oil to generously coat the bottom of the pan.
2. Place the bread slices into the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Toast each side for about 1 minute or until golden brown and crisp.
3. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning. Once toasted, transfer the bread slices to a sheet pan and lightly season with salt.

Step 3 – Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

While the bread is cooling, it’s time to prepare the creamy ricotta topping.

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, honey, chopped fresh sage, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil until smooth and creamy.
2. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. The honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory prosciutto and tart cranberry jam.

Step 4 – Assemble the Toast

Once everything is ready, it’s time to assemble the toast.

1. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over each slice of toasted bread.
2. Add a dollop of the homemade cranberry jam on top of the ricotta.
3. Layer a few slices of prosciutto on top of the jam.
4. Drizzle with a little olive oil, finish with freshly cracked black pepper, and sprinkle lemon zest over the top for a burst of freshness.

Serve immediately, and enjoy the burst of flavors in each bite!

Tips for the Perfect Savory Cranberry Ricotta Toast

Use High-Quality Bread

To get that perfect crunch, you’ll want to use high-quality crusty bread. Sourdough or Italian bread works best due to its texture and flavor. Avoid using soft bread, as it won’t hold up as well when topped with the ricotta and cranberry jam.

Toast the Bread Just Right

Be sure to toast the bread just enough to give it a crisp exterior, but not too long that it becomes hard and unpleasant to bite into. If you’re worried about burning the bread, you can also toast it in a toaster before finishing it off in the skillet for extra flavor.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our https://miarecipes.com/baked-spinach-mushroom-quesadillas-3/

Make the Cranberry Jam Ahead of Time

If you’re preparing this dish for a holiday or gathering, making the cranberry jam in advance is a great time-saver. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to assemble the toast, just warm the jam slightly before using.

Adjust the Sweetness to Your Taste

The cranberry jam can be as sweet or tart as you like. If you prefer a sweeter jam, increase the amount of brown sugar. For a more tart flavor, reduce the sugar or add an extra squeeze of lemon juice.

Nutrition Information for Savory Cranberry Ricotta Toast

Each serving of Savory Cranberry Ricotta Toast with Prosciutto provides the perfect balance of rich, savory, and sweet flavors, while also being a satisfying option. Here’s the nutritional breakdown:

• Calories: Approximately 240 calories per serving
• Macronutrients:
  • Protein: 7g (from the ricotta and prosciutto)
  • Fat: 14g (mostly from olive oil and prosciutto)
  • Carbohydrates: 22g (from the bread and cranberry jam)
• Serving Size: 1 slice of toast with ricotta, cranberry jam, and prosciutto

This dish offers a rich source of protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying snack or appetizer that won’t leave you feeling heavy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Make the Cranberry Jam Ahead of Time?

Yes! In fact, you can make the cranberry jam up to 3 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and warm it up slightly before using.

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese Instead of Ricotta?

Absolutely! While ricotta provides a creamy and mild base, you can also try using goat cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that these cheeses may have a stronger taste.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?

This recipe is not gluten-free due to the use of crusty bread. However, you can easily substitute gluten-free bread to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Cranberry Jam?

If you prefer a sweeter jam, you can increase the amount of brown sugar. Alternatively, you can add honey or maple syrup for a different type of sweetness.

Can I Serve This Dish as a Main Course?

While this recipe is perfect for appetizers or snacks, you could easily serve it as part of a larger brunch spread, paired with a simple salad or soup to make it a more substantial meal.

Conclusion: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Toast

Savory Cranberry Ricotta Toast with Prosciutto and Fresh Sage is the ideal way to indulge in a rich yet refreshing appetizer or snack. The combination of creamy ricotta, tangy cranberry jam, savory prosciutto, and fragrant sage offers a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to impress at any gathering.

Give it a try for your next holiday meal, brunch, or evening snack. This simple yet elegant recipe is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!

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