Ingredients
Ricotta Spread
- 16 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup chopped fresh herbs (such as basil, dill, chives, parsley, thyme)
- 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste
Grilled Bread
- 1 loaf sourdough bread, sliced thick
- Olive or avocado oil spray
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For Serving
- Hot honey, for drizzling
- Extra fresh herbs, for garnish
- Extra olive oil, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to the highest setting to ensure it is hot enough to get a nice char on the bread slices.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped fresh herbs, olive oil, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and creamy.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the sourdough loaf into thick pieces and arrange them on a baking sheet. Spray each side generously with olive or avocado oil spray. Sprinkle all sides evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to add flavor.
- Grill the Bread: Place the prepared bread slices directly on the grill grates. Close the grill lid and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, then flip each slice and grill for another 1 to 2 minutes until the bread is toasted, golden, and has appealing grill marks and slight charring.
- Serve: Remove the grilled bread from the grill. Optionally, slice the bread into strips for easy dipping. Serve alongside the lemon herb ricotta spread. Drizzle additional olive oil and hot honey over the ricotta, and top with extra fresh herbs if desired for an enhanced flavor experience.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor – a mix of basil, dill, chives, parsley, and thyme works well.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can also use a grill pan or broiler to toast the bread.
- Hot honey adds a sweet and spicy contrast but can be omitted or substituted with regular honey if preferred.
- Adjust garlic powder and seasoning on the bread to taste depending on your preference.
- This recipe is best served immediately when the bread is warm and crispy and the ricotta is cool and creamy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian