Let’s Get Real
Okay, friends, let’s talk about the weather… or should I say, the catastrophe that is my life every spring when the sun comes out, and I suddenly feel the pressure to wear actual pants and not just pajamas. Side note: who invented the concept of pants, and how does one go about protesting their existence? But you know what they say — spring brings more than just blooming flowers; it brings fresh strawberries. And honestly, I’d rather have fresh strawberries over pants any day!
Now, if you, like me, have an inexplicable obsession with ricotta, you’re in for something magical today! I’ve made this Roasted Strawberry Whipped Ricotta Toast about a trillion times — and each time I think, “Why was I not making this every single day of my life?” Honestly, I was probably distracted by other kitchen disasters, but enough about my life drama. Let’s celebrate the divine union of strawberries and whipped ricotta. Because let’s be real, this toast will make you want to skip on pants, grab a plate, and plant yourself firmly on the couch while basking in culinary glory.
Ingredients, Unfiltered
What’s Really in Roasted Strawberry Whipped Ricotta Toast
Let’s break down what goes into this heavenly creation, shall we? I’ve got opinions, and you know we love some colorful commentary here.
Fresh Strawberries: You’ll need about a pound for this recipe. Why? Because they are the star of the show! I like to pick the ripest, juiciest strawberries — the kind that practically scream “Eat me!” when you walk past them. No mushy ones, please! Those are like the overripe bananas of the fruit world — just a hard pass.
Honey: Just a drizzle will do. This is your secret weapon for making those strawberries pop! If strawberries are the main act, then honey is the hype man. You could use maple syrup if you’re feeling a little adventurous, but really, just stick with honey. Don’t overthink it!
Ricotta Cheese: Now, this is where we get super classy. I use whole milk ricotta because I believe in living my best life — or at the very least, flavorful life! If you only have part-skim, go ahead, but just know you’ll be sacrificing on that creamy goodness.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of this, and you’ve officially entered the realm of “Oh wow, wow, wow!” Also, make sure it’s pure vanilla extract, not that imitation nonsense. Life’s too short to use fake flavors, amirite?
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all that sweet goodness! It’s like that friend who keeps everyone grounded when the party gets too wild. Every dish needs a sprinkle of salt!
Good Quality Bread: This toast will only be as good as its foundation, folks! I opt for a nice, crusty bread like sourdough or a rustic baguette. Just stay away from the flimsy pre-sliced stuff. If it can’t hold up against my weighty toppings, why even bother?
Let’s Talk Health (or Not)
Is This Even Healthy? Let’s Discuss
Now, I’m going to hit you with some truth bombs here. Is this Roasted Strawberry Whipped Ricotta Toast healthy? Well, that depends on your perspective. Sure, you’ve got strawberries and dairy — those have nutrients and all that jazz. But then you also have honey, and we’re slathering ricotta on toast. There’s honestly a fine line between “wholesome breakfast” and “let’s pretend we’re eating breakfast while mainly enjoying dessert.” But guess what? It’s about balance, baby!
Now, here’s the deal: it’s spring time, the weather is warm, and we’ve earned a treat after surviving the indoor hibernation season. So yes, there’s sugar (hello, honey) and cheese (yes, I’m that person who refuses to apologize for loving cheese), but guess what? Eating delicious food sometimes just makes life worth living. And that’s okay!
Your Grocery List
Here’s What You’ll Need
– 1 lb fresh strawberries
– 2 tbsp honey (more if you really have a sweet tooth)
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– a pinch of salt
– 4 slices good quality bread (sourdough or baguette)
This will generously feed about 2-4 people, depending on how obnoxious you want to be with your servings.
The Actual Cooking Part
Okay, Let’s Make This
Alright, time to roll up those sleeves and dive in! Just know, if you spill some ingredients in your frenzy – it happens. Just call it “rustic.”
1. **Preheat your oven** to 400°F (200°C). No one likes a cold oven when the strawberries are desperately waiting to be roasted.
2. **Prepare the strawberries**. Hull the strawberries and cut them in half. I sometimes just slice them in quarters if they’re hefty. Place them on a baking sheet, and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of honey. Shake in a little salt — trust me on this one. Then mix them around like you’re trying to convince the universe that they should roast quickly.
3. **Roast those berries!** Pop them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. You want them soft and kind of jammy, but not so mushy that they’re losing their minds. Important: set a timer! Do not repeat my life mistake of getting sidetracked by scrolling through social media while your precious strawberries are obliterating themselves in the oven. Yes, I’m looking at you, TikTok!
4. **Make the whipped ricotta**. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, the remaining tablespoon of honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Use a hand mixer, kitchen mixer, or even a whisk if you’re feeling ambitious and want to channel your inner fitness guru. Beat it until it’s fluffy and delicious. This step might feel completely unnecessary, but trust me: whipped ricotta is a game-changer!
5. **Toast your bread**. While your strawberries are working their magic in the oven, toast your chosen bread slices until golden brown. You can use a toaster or just pop them in the oven for a few minutes (just make sure to pay attention this time, okay?).
6. **Assemble your masterpiece**! This is fun — spread a thick layer of that whipped ricotta onto your toasted bread. Then, layer those roasted strawberries generously on top. Feel free to drizzle a little extra honey on top if you’re feeling extra fancy.
7. **Eat and revel in your glory**! Take a moment to breathe and appreciate what you’ve created! This toast is pure joy on a plate.
Side Notes & Sassy Hacks
Bonus Tips You Didn’t Ask For
– **Use different fruits**: If strawberries aren’t your jam, you could swap them for roasted peaches or figs. Stone fruits roast beautifully and bring a whole new vibe to the table.
– **Spice it up**: Feel free to jazz things up with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg in the whipped ricotta if you want to get wild.
– **Make it a brunch dish**: You could turn this into a full brunch spread with some scrambled eggs or crispy bacon on the side. Just saying, life is about balance — brunch is the balance of breakfast and lunch!
– **Store leftovers smartly**: If you have any ricotta left, it’ll keep in the fridge for about a week. Just know that I have no guarantee on the strawberries; they usually disappear before that can happen.
– **Dare I say it?**: Add a scoop of Greek yogurt on top to add a protein punch. Your gym-loving friends will thank you, while the rest will continue enjoying the sweetness.
Final Words of (Culinary) Wisdom
Now, if you get a chance to make this Roasted Strawberry Whipped Ricotta Toast, drop everything and do it! It’s that good — a slice of springtime bliss that has become my absolute go-to for breakfast, brunch, or an elegant evening snack post-dinner while I ignore my responsibilities and binge-watch reality TV.
Tag me in your creations! Or just send me a mental high-five from your comfortable nook. Either way, I hope you enjoy every bite and secretly judge how many slices you’ve demolished. Now go forth, make this toast, and be the food hero in your house!
