Whipped Ricotta with Sweet and Savory Red Grapes

Creamy whipped ricotta topped with sweet and savory red grapes is a crostini appetizer you’ll be making all summer long! A spin on the classic tomato bruschetta, this crostini topping is a deliciously clever way to use this supermarket staple!

What you’ll need to make this Whipped Ricotta with Red Grapes Crostini:

• seedless red grapes
• sherry vinegar
• fennel seeds
• brown sugar
• olive oil
• ricotta
• cream
• baguette slices
• salt and pepper
• fresh thyme (optional)
• wooden skewers

I’ve got to say I feel a bit sorry for red grapes. Unlike peaches, berries and melons, they’re pretty much taken for granted.

I mean, have you ever heard anyone wax poetic about red grapes?

Because really, aside from gracing cheeseboards and brown bagged lunches, we honestly don’t do much else with them, do we?

Which is why this crostini topping is sooo brilliant!

I first saw these gorgeously grilled grapes in Yottam Ottolenghi’s new Simple cookbook, and I had to try them. Like everything that man does, they are absolutely amazing!

Bathed in a super simple marinade and grilled (either on an outdoor grill or stovetop) these red grapes are a little smokey, a little savory and utterly scrumptious. Add in whipped ricotta and a good, crusty baguette slice… well, let’s just say it’s a whole party for your tastebuds!

I’ve made this recipe three or four times in the last couple of months and love it more every time I make it.

I have a sneaky suspicion you will too!!!

How to Make Red Grapes with Whipped Ricotta Crostini:

Tips for Making the Crostini Topping:

• You can marinate the grapes a day or two ahead of time.
• The ricotta can be whipped a day ahead of time.
• Look for artisan ricotta OR make your own!
• The grilled grapes are also amazing served on top of simply seasoned grilled chicken or pork.

Other Appetizer recipes you might enjoy:

• Crab Rangoon
• Cheese and Herb Quick Bread
• Pan Con Tomate

Whipped Ricotta with Sweet and Savory Red Grapes:

So simple and yet so incredibly delicious, this twist on the classic tomato bruschetta will earn you “oohs and ahhs” at your next soiree! -But don’t wait ’til then to make this – you deserve this creamy and crunchy appetizer now!

If you like this recipe, please give it a 5 star rating!

Cheers!

Nancy

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5 from 1 vote

Grilled Red Grapes with Whipped Ricotta Crostini

Simple and simply sensational, this crostini appetizer takes plain old red grapes to a whole new level! You can make the grapes and ricotta up to two days in advance. Then just grill the grapes and either assemble or let your guests make their own!

Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time10 mins

Total Time25 mins

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Keyword: crostini, red grapes, whipped ricotta

Servings: 5

Calories: 3486kcal

Author: Nancy

Ingredients

• 2 cups seedless red grapes
• 3 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons sherry vinegar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fennel seeds toasted and crushed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dark brown sugar
• 1 clove garlic pressed
• 1 cup fresh ricotta artisan variety or homemade
• 24 baguette slices
• 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil for brushing
• 1 -2 Tablespoons whipping cream

Instructions

For Whipped Ricotta:

• Add the ricotta to a medium sized bowl. Using either a hand or stand mixer, whip the ricotta, slowly drizzling in the olive oil . 
• Add 1 Tablespoon of whipping cream and whip. If the mixture is still too thick to spread, add an additional tablespoon of whipping cream. 
• Season with salt and pepper. If not using right away, place in a covered container and refrigerate. 

For the grilled crostini:

• Brush the baguette slices with the olive oil. Broil for 2 – 3 minutes until the baguette slices are golden brown. 

For the grilled grapes:

• In a medium bowl, combine the grapes, olive oil, sherry vinegar, fennel seeds, brown sugar and garlic.
• Stir to combine and set aside. 
• Thread the grapes onto small wooden skewers.
• Grill over high heat for 2 – 3 minutes turning frequently. 
• Either set out the whipped ricotta, crostini and grilled grapes and let everyone assemble their own or spread each baguette slice with some of the whipped ricotta and top with a few grapes. Drizzle the remaining marinade over and sprinkle with fresh thyme if using. 

Notes

1. You can marinate the grapes up to two days in advance.
2. You can whip the ricotta up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate. 
3. Use homemade ricotta or a high-quality artisanal ricotta for this recipe! 
4. The grilled grapes are also delicious spooned over lightly seasoned grilled chicken or pork!
5.  

Nutrition

Calories: 3486kcal | Carbohydrates: 614g | Protein: 111g | Fat: 59g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 25mg | Sodium: 7400mg | Potassium: 1497mg | Fiber: 33g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 5.2% | Vitamin C: 2.6% | Calcium: 105.1% | Iron: 199.1%