Pea & Mint Ricotta Toast

I threw this together on a gray Sunday morning when the fridge was mostly empty but I needed something that felt like spring. The pop of bright green against the golden toast made my entire kitchen feel lighter, and now it is my go-to when I want food that looks as cheerful as it tastes.

Last spring my sister came over for a catch-up brunch and I made these on a whim. She took one bite, went silent for a full minute, then asked if I could please teach her how to make them for her weekend guests.

Ingredients

• Ricotta cheese: Whipping this creates an incredible texture that spreads like cloud, and full-fat ricotta really does make a difference here
• Frozen peas: Thawed completely and blended, they add natural sweetness and that gorgeous green color without any fuss
• Fresh mint: Do not skip this, it is what makes the whole dish sing and feel like spring on a plate
• Lemon zest: Use a microplane if you have one, and zest right before serving so the oils stay fresh and potent
• Sourdough bread: A sturdy slice that can hold up to the generous spread without getting soggy or falling apart
• Extra-virgin olive oil: A finishing drizzle adds richness and makes everything taste restaurant-quality
• Salt and black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper is essential here, it cuts through the creamy ricotta beautifully

Instructions

Whip the ricotta mixture:

Blend the ricotta, peas, mint, olive oil, salt, and pepper until completely smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides so everything gets incorporated

Toast your bread:

Get the sourdough nicely golden and crisp, giving it a good foundation that will not turn mushy when you add the topping

Spread generously:

Pile the pea mixture onto each toast slice, do not be shy with it because you want that creamy contrast in every bite

Add the finishing touches:

Sprinkle lemon zest over the top, add another crack of pepper, and finish with a little drizzle of olive oil

Serve right away:

Put those lemon wedges on the side so everyone can add an extra squeeze if they want more brightness

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This toast has become my answer to impromptu guests, sad rainy days, and moments when I just need something beautiful on my plate.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I add chili flakes for warmth or crumble feta on top for a salty tang that balances the sweetness of the peas. In summer, fresh peas from the market take this to a whole new level if you can find them.

Bread Choices

While sourdough is my go-to for its tang and structure, a thick-cut country loaf or even a seeded grain bread works wonderfully here. Just make sure whatever you choose can stand up to that generous layer of ricotta.

Serving Suggestions

These toasts shine alongside a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette, or serve them as part of a bigger brunch spread with eggs and fresh fruit. They also make the perfect light lunch with a cup of soup.

• Top with microgreens or pea shoots for extra color and freshness
• Add a poached egg on top if you want to turn this into a more substantial meal
• Keep extra lemon wedges handy because most people will want that extra acid

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Every time I make these, I am reminded that the simplest ingredients, treated with a little care, can become something extraordinary.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make the ricotta spread ahead of time?

Yes, the pea and mint ricotta mixture can be prepared up to 1 day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply toast the bread and assemble when ready to serve.

→ What bread alternatives work well for this toast?

While sourdough provides wonderful texture and tang, you can substitute gluten-free bread, whole grain bread, or even thick-cut white bread. Any sturdy bread that toasts well will work beautifully.

→ How can I add more flavor to this dish?

Try sprinkling red chili flakes for heat, crumbling feta cheese for tanginess, or adding a touch of garlic powder to the ricotta mixture. You can also finish with a drizzle of truffle oil for extra sophistication.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely. This is a naturally vegetarian dish made with ricotta cheese, peas, mint, and sourdough. Simply ensure your ingredients are vegetarian-certified if needed.

→ Can frozen peas be used, or should they be fresh?

Frozen peas work perfectly and are actually more convenient. Simply thaw them before blending into the ricotta. Fresh peas can be used as well, though you may need to blanch them briefly first for the best texture.

→ How many people does this serve?

This dish makes 4 generous servings as a breakfast or brunch item. The yield is one slice of toast per person, though you can easily double the quantities if needed for a larger group.