Quick Peach Bruschetta Ricotta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crostini

01 - 1 baguette, sliced thinly
02 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
03 - 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
04 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Peach Tomato Mixture

05 - 1 pint chopped tomatoes
06 - 3 medium peaches, diced
07 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
08 - Juice of 1/2 lemon
09 - A generous handful of fresh basil leaves, sliced or roughly chopped

→ Whipped Ricotta and Topping

10 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
11 - Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F or set a grill to the highest setting. Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick slices. In a bowl, mash together the butter and half of the minced garlic using a fork. Add a pinch of salt and mix thoroughly. Spread the garlic butter evenly on each baguette slice and arrange them on a baking sheet.
02 - Place the baguette slices into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, grill for 1 to 2 minutes with the lid closed, checking frequently to avoid burning.
03 - In a bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, diced peaches, and the remaining minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice, then toss to combine. Let the mixture marinate as you prepare the whipped ricotta.
04 - In a food processor, blend the ricotta until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a bowl, ready for spreading on the crostini.
05 - Spread a generous layer of whipped ricotta over each toasted baguette slice. Stir the fresh basil into the marinated peach and tomato mixture. Top each crostini with a spoonful or two of the mixture. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

# Notes:

01 - Serve the crostini fresh to maintain their crisp texture. Allowing the peach and tomato mixture to marinate enhances the flavor.