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Quick Prosciutto Fig Crostini with Whipped Ricotta: Easy 10-Minute Appetizer

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These quick prosciutto fig crostini with whipped ricotta are a 10-minute appetizer that tastes like something from a fancy wine bar. With just five simple ingredients, they’re perfect for last-minute entertaining or a special snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 French baguette (about 12–14 inches long)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing bread)
  • 6 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto
  • ½ cup fig jam or fig spread
  • Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish
  • Optional: flaky sea salt (like Maldon)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick rounds (about 20-24 slices).
  2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides.
  3. Toast the bread for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Set aside to cool slightly.
  4. While the bread toasts, make the whipped ricotta: In a food processor, combine ricotta, 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Pulse a few times, then process for about 30 seconds until smooth and fluffy. Scrape down sides and process another 10-15 seconds. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Transfer whipped ricotta to a small bowl. If not using immediately, cover and refrigerate; bring to room temperature before serving.
  6. To assemble: Spread about 1 tablespoon of whipped ricotta onto each toasted baguette slice. Use the back of a spoon to create a small well in the center.
  7. Add about ½ teaspoon of fig jam on top of the ricotta.
  8. Top with a piece of prosciutto, folded into loose ribbons or ruffles.
  9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of flaky sea salt, if desired.
  10. Serve immediately. Best eaten within 30 minutes of assembly.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature ricotta. Toast bread in batches if doubling the recipe to avoid overcrowding. Assemble no more than 30 minutes before serving to prevent soggy bread. The whipped ricotta can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Keywords: prosciutto fig crostini, whipped ricotta, easy appetizer, 10-minute appetizer, fig jam crostini, Italian appetizer, party appetizer