Strawberry Ricotta Toast (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - Olive oil, 1 tablespoon
02 - Baguette, fresh and sliced into pieces about half an inch thick
03 - Freshly ground black pepper and a small amount of salt to taste

→ Ricotta Blend

04 - Whole-milk ricotta, 1 cup
05 - Vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon
06 - Golden honey, 2 tablespoons
07 - Fresh basil leaves, finely chopped, 1/4 cup
08 - Salt, 1/4 teaspoon

→ Berry Topping

09 - Fresh strawberries, sliced, 2 cups
10 - Balsamic glaze, 2 tablespoons
11 - Honey, 1 tablespoon
12 - A pinch of salt, about 1/4 teaspoon
13 - Optional: fresh mint leaves for decoration

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baguette pieces on a baking tray, drizzle olive oil over them, and sprinkle on a little salt. Let them bake for about 2 minutes, or until golden and crunchy.
02 - Combine the strawberries with honey and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for a few minutes to intensify its sweetness and flavor.
03 - Mix ricotta, honey, vanilla, and salt in a bowl until creamy and smooth. Stir in the basil leaves if you'd like a fresh herb kick.
04 - Spread ricotta mixture over the bread once it cools slightly. Top with strawberries, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and maybe honey. Add mint leaves or cracked black pepper for garnish if you'd like. Best served warm!

# Notes:

01 - Serve while the bread is warm and has a nice crunch
02 - You can swap out herbs with fresh mint or thyme to change things up
03 - The ricotta spread can be made ahead and kept in the fridge for up to one day