These crostini are the perfect thing to whip up when guests stop by. The poached pears are especially comforting as the weather gets cooler. They’re easy to make and always delight a crowd.
Ingredients
CROSTINI
1 (24-inch) baguette
olive oil
salt
RICOTTA SPREAD
4 cups fresh ricotta
1/4 cup agave syrup or honey
2 lemons, zested
salt, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
POACHED PEARS
2 cups grappa
2 cups water
1/2 cup sugar
8 whole cloves
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
1 orange, zested
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
4 Bartlett pears, peeled, halved and cored
TO SERVE
olive oil
24 thin slices prosciutto
Preparation
FOR THE CROSTINI:
1.Preheat oven to 350 F.
2.Cut baguette into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Brush olive oil on both sides and place on a baking sheet.
3.Season with salt and bake 8 to 10 minutes or until golden-brown.
FOR THE RICOTTA SPREAD:
In a bowl, mix all ingredients together.
FOR THE POACHED PEARS:
In a Dutch oven, bring all ingredients, except the pears, to a simmer over medium heat and simmer for 5 minutes.Gently place the pears in the poaching liquid and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Turn off heat and let pears cool down in the liquid.
TO SERVE:
Spread ricotta spread onto the crostini. Place a few slices of the pear onto the cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with a slice of the prosciutto.
24 thin slices prosciutto
