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Fresh Spring Pea and Crispy Prosciutto Crostini

Fresh Spring Pea and Crispy Prosciutto Crostini - featured image

A quick and easy 5-minute appetizer featuring fresh spring peas, creamy ricotta, and crispy prosciutto on toasted baguette slices. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh spring peas, shelled
  • 46 thin slices prosciutto
  • 1 small baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • A handful fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of fresh peas and cook for 1-2 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Drain again and pat dry.
  2. Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch rounds. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil. Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the bread slices for about 2 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add prosciutto slices and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until crispy but not burnt. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine blanched peas with ricotta cheese, fresh lemon juice, and chopped mint leaves. Gently mash the peas with a fork or spoon, keeping some texture. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Spread a generous tablespoon of the pea-ricotta mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Top with a piece of crispy prosciutto. Optionally, add grated Parmesan or fresh mint leaves for garnish.
  6. Serve immediately while bread is crisp and prosciutto is warm.

Notes

Use fresh peas for best flavor and texture; frozen peas can be used in a pinch. Keep prosciutto separate if making ahead and re-crisp in skillet before serving. Do not over-mash peas to maintain texture. Optional additions include Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: spring peas, prosciutto, crostini, appetizer, easy recipe, quick snack, ricotta, fresh herbs