Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Sweet Pea Bruschetta with Whipped Ricotta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 13 reviews

Sweet Pea Bruschetta with Whipped Ricotta is a fresh and vibrant appetizer featuring creamy whipped ricotta cheese, tender mashed peas, and crispy toasted bread. Infused with fresh mint and topped with shaved Pecorino or Parmesan, this easy-to-make bruschetta balances rich cheese with bright garden flavors, perfect for a spring or summer snack or starter.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Cheese and Pea Mixture

  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup frozen peas (or shelled fresh peas)
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
  • Handful fresh mint leaves, sliced thin
  • 2 ounce piece Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese (for shaving)

Bread and Garnish

  • 4 slices crusty bread, 1-inch thick
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Extra virgin olive oil, for brushing

Instructions

  1. Drain and whip ricotta: Place 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese in a fine mesh colander or cheesecloth-lined strainer set over a bowl and drain for about 30 minutes. Next, use a whisk or wooden spoon to gently whip the ricotta until light and creamy.
  2. Cook and mash peas: Bring a small saucepan of water to a boil. Add a tablespoon of salt and 1 cup frozen peas. Cook for 1-2 minutes until tender. Drain the peas and transfer to a bowl. Using a potato masher or wooden spoon, mash the peas to a coarse consistency. Mix in 2-3 tablespoons olive oil, season with black pepper and more salt to taste.
  3. Toast bread and prepare garlic: Heat a griddle or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the 4 slices of crusty bread with olive oil. Toast the bread until dark golden brown on both sides. Remove from heat and immediately scrape 1 garlic clove over the top of each slice to infuse flavor.
  4. Assemble bruschetta: Spread whipped ricotta evenly over each slice of toasted bread. Sprinkle thinly sliced fresh mint on top. Spoon the mashed pea mixture over the ricotta. Use a vegetable peeler to shave thin slices of Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese over each bruschetta. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil before serving.

Notes

  • Drain the ricotta well to achieve the light, creamy texture needed for spreading.
  • Use fresh peas if in season for a sweeter, more vibrant flavor.
  • The garlic can be adjusted to taste; rubbing the toasted bread imparts a subtle aromatic note.
  • This bruschetta is best served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for entertaining.
  • Substitute vegan ricotta and cheese for a vegetarian-friendly option.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian