Lemon Ricotta Toast with Summer Berries
This elegant toast layers whipped lemon-scented ricotta over crisp bread, topped with a mix of fresh summer berries and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. It’s refreshing, creamy, crunchy, and naturally sweet — a Mediterranean-inspired favorite.
Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 5 minutes (to toast bread)
Total: 15 minutes
Serves: 2–4
Ingredients
For the Ricotta Spread:
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
1–2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
Pinch of salt
Optional: 1–2 tbsp Greek yogurt for extra tang and creaminess
For the Toast:
4 slices crusty bread (sourdough, multigrain, or brioche)
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Topping:
1/2 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup blueberries
1/2 cup raspberries or blackberries
Extra honey or maple syrup, for drizzling
Fresh mint or basil, for garnish
Instructions
Make the Lemon Ricotta:
In a small bowl, mix ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey/maple, and salt.
Optional: blend or whisk for a fluffier texture.
Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon to your liking.
Toast the Bread:
Toast slices in a toaster, grill pan, or skillet until golden and crisp.
For extra flavor, lightly brush with butter or olive oil before toasting.
Assemble the Toasts:
Spread a generous layer of lemon ricotta on each toast.
Top with a mix of fresh summer berries.
Drizzle with a little more honey or syrup.
Finish & Serve:
Garnish with mint or basil if desired.
Serve immediately while the toast is crisp.
Tips
Make it savory: Skip the honey and top with cracked black pepper, olive oil, and basil for a brunch twist.
Add crunch: Sprinkle with chopped pistachios, almonds, or granola.
Use seasonal fruit: Try peaches, figs, cherries, or plums in place of berries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it ahead?
Make the lemon ricotta up to 3 days in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Assemble toast fresh for best texture.
Can I use store-bought whipped ricotta?
Yes — just stir in the lemon zest, juice, and honey to flavor it.
Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely! You can skip the lemon juice or use just a little for a sweeter version.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~220
Protein: 9g
Carbs: 24g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 9g