Crostini with Ricotta and Honey

May 12, 2018
by Ginger Hultin MS RDN

Looking for an easy appetizer that feels a little elevated but doesn’t take much time? These crostini with ricotta and honey are one of my go-to options when I need something quick, balanced, and crowd-friendly.

They come together in about 20 minutes, and the combination of creamy ricotta, crisp bread, and a drizzle of honey hits that perfect sweet-savory balance. I’ve added a simple white bean layer for extra texture and staying power, so these aren’t just pretty, they’re actually satisfying too.

Whether you’re hosting, heading to a gathering, or just need a simple snack that feels a little more put-together, this is an easy one to keep in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love These Crostini with Ricotta and Honey

  • Quick and simple: Ready in under 30 minutes
  • Balanced: Includes protein, fiber, fat, and carbs
  • Great for entertaining: Easy to prep ahead
  • Flexible: Works as an appetizer, snack, or light meal

This is the kind of recipe that works just as well for a casual weeknight as it does for a gathering.

A More Balanced Appetizer Option

If you’re serving drinks or hosting, having something balanced alongside can make a difference in how you feel during and after the event.

Eating a mix of protein, fat, and carbohydrates can help support more stable blood sugar and keep energy levels steady. These crostini do exactly that, combining:

  • Ricotta for protein and fat
  • Beans for fiber and plant-based protein
  • Bread for carbohydrates

It’s a simple shift, but it helps turn a light appetizer into something more supportive and satisfying.

Ingredient Highlights

Ricotta
A soft, mild cheese that blends easily and adds protein. It pairs well with both sweet and savory flavors, which is what makes it perfect here.

Honey
Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the ricotta. It also brings in antioxidants from plant compounds.

White Beans
Great Northern or cannellini beans add fiber and plant-based protein. They also give these crostini more substance, so they’re not just a light bite.

Tips for the Best Crostini

  • Don’t over-broil the bread, it goes from golden to burnt quickly
  • Assemble just before serving to keep the bread crisp
  • Use high-quality olive oil and honey for the best flavor
  • Add toppings in layers for texture and balance

Substitutions and Variations

  • Dairy-free: Use a plant-based ricotta alternative like this Whipped Almond Ricotta
  • No honey: Swap for maple syrup
  • Add-ons: Try sliced figs, roasted grapes, or crushed nuts
  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread or crackers

Crostini with Ricotta and Honey FAQ

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prep the components separately. Assemble right before serving.

What bread works best?
A baguette is ideal, but any sturdy bread that crisps well will work.

Can I skip the beans?
You can, but they add texture and make the appetizer more filling.

How do I store leftovers?
Store components separately for up to 3–4 days. Assemble fresh.

Other Appetizers to Try

If you’re looking for more simple options for gatherings, you might also like:

Final Thoughts

These crostini with ricotta and honey are one of those recipes that look impressive but are actually very simple to make. They’re flexible, balanced, and easy to adapt based on what you have on hand.

If you try them, let me know what variations you come up with.

Crostini with Ricotta and Honey

Course:
Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine:
Americana
Keyword:
Crostini with Ricotta and Honey
Servings:
8 servings
Calories:
280
kcal
Author:
Ginger Hultin

Ingredients

  • 1 15 oz can Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil divided
  • 1/2 large fresh lemon, juiced
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper divided
  • 1 sourdough baguette (cut diagonally into 18 quarter-inch slices)
  • 8 ounces whipped ricotta cheese
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh or dried thyme for garnish

Instructions

1. Drain and rinse the beans then place them in a saucepan with 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Cook on medium heat for 5-6 minutes.

2. Place the beans in a small mixing bowl and mash with a fork, leaving some beans whole for texture. Then add the lemon juice, 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.

3. Preheat the broiler to high with the oven rack in the highest position. Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and drizzle them evenly with 2 tablespoons of oil. Broil until just golden brown on the edges, about 1-2 minutes.

4. When the crostini are cool, top each with a heaping tablespoon of whipped ricotta and then the same amount of the bean mixture.

5. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and then honey. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and garnish with thyme.

Nutrition

Serving:
1 bowl
|
Calories:
280
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
39
g
|
Cholesterol:
14
mg
|
Fat:
10
g
|
Fiber:
4
g
|
Monosaturated Fat:
5
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g
|
Potassium:
260
mg
|
Protein:
10
g
|
Saturated Fat:
2.8
g
|
Sodium:
735
mg
|
Sugar:
8
g
|
Trans Fat:
0
g