This appetizer sounds fancy, but it’s really only a couple of good ingredients that create an even better outcome. I first discovered roasted grapes that were served at a restaurant with cheesecake. They’re so good because the sugars slightly caramelize and the juice concentrates. These things are served on a crispy baguette that’s been toasted with olive oil and thyme. Super easy and super delicious!
the process
The process here is fairly simple. Slice a baguette and coat each slice with olive oil and then season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Toast in the oven and you have a great vehicle for not only this recipe but bruschetta would also be great.
I roasted the grapes in a 375°F oven for about 8 minutes, or just until they were soft, and ready to burst.
I like the combination of the slight sweetness of the honey ricotta, and the tartness of the grapes, also the crisp baguette. To top the whole thing, I fried the thyme in a little butter, and used the fried thyme to top each piece. Again, it’s sounds like it would take all day, but it’s basically throwing things together.
[recipe title=”Roasted Grape and Honey Ricotta Appetizer” servings=”8″ time=”30mins” difficulty=”easy”]
Super simple appetizer for your next gathering. Great during every season, and enjoyed by nearly everyone!
[recipe-ingredients]
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced
– Olive oil
– 1/2 pound grapes
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Fresh thyme
– 3 tablespoons butter
[/recipe-ingredients]
[recipe-directions]
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Brush each baguette slice with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and thyme leaves. Bake in the oven for about 8 minutes or until golden brown.
2. While the bread is baking, prepare the grapes by spreading them on a sheet pan with a very small drizzle of olive oil. Bake in the same oven for about 10 minutes, be careful to not burn.
3. Mix together ricotta, honey, and salt and pepper. When grapes are done, allow to cool in the fridge and mix with balsamic vinegar.
4. While the grapes are cooling, fry the thyme in a pan with butter. This should take about 5 minutes over medium high heat. Careful to not walk away because it burns quickly!
5. To assemble, begin with a slice of baguette, top with a couple tablespoons of the ricotta mixture, and a few grapes. Garnish with a piece of fried thyme. Enjoy!
[/recipe-directions]
[recipe-notes]
You can prepare the separate ingredients ahead of time, the ricotta mixture, grapes and toasted bread. When ready to serve assemble!
[/recipe-notes]
[/recipe]
