Charred Bread with Ricotta and Cherry Salsa

A elegant appetizer featuring grilled baguette topped with creamy ricotta and a vibrant cherry salsa made with fresh cherries, spring onions, and lemon juice. The combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy elements creates a perfect summer starter.

6 servings
28 min

Ingredients

  • 3 whole spring onions, preferably red, white/red and green parts separated, thinly sliced on a steep diagonal
  • 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 12 ounces fresh cherries (about 2 1/4 cups), pitted, cut into 1/3-inch-thick slivers
  • ½ cup olive oil, plus more for brushing
  • to taste Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
  • 1 whole baguette, sliced in half lengthwise
  • 12 ounces whole-milk fresh ricotta
  • to taste Flaky sea salt

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Toss white/red parts of spring onions and lemon juice in a medium bowl to coat and let sit 10 minutes.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    Add spring onion greens, cherries, and 1/2 cup oil to bowl and toss gently again to incorporate; season cherry salsa with kosher salt and pepper.

    5 min

  3. 3.

    Prepare a grill for medium-low heat. Brush cut sides of baguette with oil. Grill, cut sides down, until bread is toasted and golden brown, about 3 minutes.

    8 min

  4. 4.

    Let toasts cool for a minute, then spread generous amounts of ricotta over both pieces. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt. Cut each half on a diagonal into 6 pieces. Arrange on a platter and, using a slotted spoon, top with cherry salsa.

    5 min

  5. 5.

    Cherry salsa can be made 6 hours ahead. Cover and chill.