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This Italian Nduja Ricotta Toast combines creamy, whipped ricotta with the bold, spicy kick of ‘nduja, balanced by a touch of honey and fresh basil. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, it’s an easy yet elegant dish that bursts with flavor.
You’ll also love creamy Nduja pasta. Read more about- What is Nduja?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian Nduja Ricotta Toast is the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and sweet—an authentic taste of Southern Italy in every bite!
The silky herby ricotta infused with lemon zest complements the smoky heat of nduja, while a drizzle of honey completes the savory toast.
Table of Contents
Recipe Ingredients
Simple ingredients, rustic flavors, and an unforgettable taste—just like all the best Italian dishes!
- Ricotta cheese – Creamy, mild, and slightly sweet, it creates a luscious base for the toast.
- Dried Italian herbs – A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme adds an aromatic touch. Use my homemade Italian seasoning.
- Lemon zest – Bright and citrusy, it enhances the freshness of the ricotta.
- Extra virgin olive oil – Used in both the ricotta and ‘nduja mixture for richness and smooth texture.
- Honey – A touch of sweetness to balance the heat of the ‘nduja.
- Ciabatta bread – Rustic, airy, and crisp when toasted, it holds up well to the toppings. Focaccia or baguette also work.
- ‘Nduja – Spicy, spreadable Calabrian salami with a deep, smoky flavor.
- Fresh basil leaves – Add a fragrant, herbaceous finish.
See the recipe card for quantities.
Recipe Variations and Optional Toppings
- Mild Version – Mix ‘nduja into the ricotta for a softer, less intense heat.
- Crunchy Twist – Add toasted pine nuts or crushed pistachios for extra texture.
- Cheese Upgrade – Swap ricotta for creamy burrata or mascarpone. You’ll love my Easy Baked Brie Recipe.
- Citrus Boost – Drizzle with orange-infused honey for a unique sweetness.
- Savory Touch – Top with shaved Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.
- Herby Freshness – Sprinkle chopped chives, spring onions, or microgreens. Add some homemade pesto genovese!
- Roasted Garlic – Blend roasted garlic into the ricotta for deeper flavor.
How To Make Ndjua Ricotta Toast
This is a step-by-step photo overview of the recipe; the full instructions are in the recipe card below.
Place all the ingredients for the whipped ricotta in the food processor and pulse until perfectly smooth. Smash the nduja sausage in a bowl until spreadable.
Spread the Nduja sausage on the toast and pipe or spread the whipped ricotta. Add fresh basil and a drizzle of honey. Mangia!
My Pro Tip
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ricotta – Whole-milk ricotta gives the creamiest texture. For extra smoothness, drain excess liquid before whipping.
- Whip the ricotta well – A food processor or blender creates an ultra-smooth, airy consistency.
- Mix ‘nduja with olive oil – This makes it easier to spread and evenly distribute the heat.
- Toast ciabatta until golden – A crisp base prevents sogginess and adds the perfect crunch.
- Balance the heat – A drizzle of honey softens the spice from the ‘nduja.
- Serve immediately – The contrast of warm toast and cool ricotta is best fresh.
FAQ’s
‘Nduja is a spicy, spreadable Calabrian salami made with pork, chili peppers, and fat. You can find it at Italian specialty stores, gourmet markets, or online.
Yes! Whip the ricotta mixture and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Give it a quick stir before using.
For a milder option, try spicy soppressata, chorizo, or a mix of roasted red pepper and smoked paprika.
Serve with a crisp white wine like Vermentino, a light red like Barbera, or a refreshing Aperol Spritz. It also pairs beautifully with a side salad or olives.
Storing Leftovers
Store components separately. Keep whipped ricotta in the fridge for up to 2 days and toasted bread in an airtight container at room temperature. Assemble just before serving.
More Italian Recipes
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Nduja Ricotta Toast Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups whole-milk ricotta cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs, more if desired
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest, adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for ricotta mixture
- 1 teaspoon honey, plus more for drizzling
- 8 slices ciabatta bread
- 3 tablespoons nduja, spreadable spicy Calabrian salami
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for ‘nduja mixture
- Fresh basil leaves or microgreens , for garnish
Instructions
- Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or use a toaster.Place the ciabatta slices on a baking sheet and toast for about 5 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Whip the Ricotta Mixture: In a food processor or blender, combine the ricotta, Italian herbs, lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and honey.Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
- Prepare the 'Nduja Spread: In a small bowl, mix the 'nduja with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to make it more spreadable.
- Assemble the Toasts: Spread a thin layer of the 'nduja mixture over each toasted ciabatta slice.Pipe or spoon the whipped ricotta generously over the 'nduja.
- Garnish & Serve: Add a small dab of 'nduja and oil on top for extra heat.Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh basil leaves and/or micro greens.
- Enjoy Immediately: Serve warm or at room temperature as an appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Use high-quality ricotta for the creamiest texture. Opt for fresh, whole-milk ricotta.
- Blend until silky smooth in a food processor for the best consistency.
- Mix ‘nduja with olive oil to make it easier to spread.
- Toast the ciabatta well for a crisp base that holds up to the toppings.
- Balance the flavors with a drizzle of honey to complement the spice.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste and best texture.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
