Italian summer party theme
grilled zucchini and ricotta crostini: a taste of summer
By:
Published:
05 Sept 2025Remember that amazing vacation I took last summer? Picture this: a quaint little Italian trattoria, sun-drenched cobblestones, and the aroma of fresh herbs wafting through the air. That’s where I first tasted something similar to these crostini. It was one of those food moments that just sticks with you, you know? I knew I had to recreate that little piece of culinary heaven back home. The slight char on the zucchini, the cool, creamy ricotta—oh man! Its's a party in your mouth.
Fast forward a few months, and after several attempts (and a few kitchen mishaps involving slightly burnt bread), I think I’ve finally nailed it! These Grilled Zucchini & Ricotta Crostini are not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly simple to prepare. Plus, they're visually stunning! Whether you're hosting a summer gathering, looking for a tasty appetizer, or just want a little something special for yourself, these crostini are sure to hit the spot.
Required Equipments
- Grill
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Spatula
- Toaster or Grill Pan
Grilled Zucchini and Ricotta Crostini: A Taste of Summer: Frequently Asked Questions
Grilled Zucchini and Ricotta Crostini: A Taste of Summer
This Grilled Zucchini & Ricotta Crostini recipe brings together the smoky sweetness of grilled zucchini, the creamy richness of ricotta, and the satisfying crunch of toasted bread. A perfect appetizer, light lunch, or elegant snack, these crostini are a celebration of summer flavors that are easy to make and even easier to devour.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 6 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- First things first, let's get that grill heated up! Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or even a regular frying pan will do in a pinch. Just aim for that lovely charred effect.
- While the grill is heating, let's prep the zucchini. Wash 2 medium zucchini and trim off the ends. Slice them lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick planks. Aim for even slices so they cook uniformly.
- Now, in a medium bowl, toss the zucchini slices with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little kick!). Make sure each slice is nicely coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Next, place the zucchini slices on the preheated grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly! Remove the grilled zucchini from the grill and set aside.
- While the zucchini is grilling, let's toast the bread. Slice a baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Brush each slice with a little olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. You can toast the bread on the grill for about 1-2 minutes per side, or in a toaster oven until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to burn them!
- Now for the creamy goodness! In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese with 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is nicely combined. If you want a slightly sweeter flavor, a drizzle of honey wouldn’t hurt.
- Time to assemble! Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture onto each toasted bread slice. Then, top with a few slices of the grilled zucchini. Arrange them artfully – presentation matters!
- Finally, garnish the crostini with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves, and a tiny pinch of sea salt. And there you have it—Grilled Zucchini & Ricotta Crostini, ready to impress!
- Serve these beauties immediately and watch them disappear! They are best enjoyed fresh, when the bread is still crispy and the zucchini is warm.
📝 Notes
- For a smoky flavor, use a charcoal grill.
- If you don't have fresh basil, dried basil can be used (use about 1 teaspoon).
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 180 kcal
Protein: 8 g
Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 2 g
Calcium: 80 mg
