One of my favorite things about the weather changing is all of the delicious produce that is coming into season. Spring onions, asparagus and of course one of my all time favorites, peas. This pea and ricotta toast showcases some of my favorite spring produce, and equally as important, what I love most about cooking; fresh seasonal ingredients left alone to simply shine. No fancy techniques. No fancy tools required. Just beautiful ingredients at their peak, doing their thing!
When coming up with this recipe, I really wanted to make sure the these beautiful spring peas were the star. I love how sweet and tender fresh spring peas are, so I wanted to leave them alone as much as I could. To make the ricotta mixture, I simply added in some fresh peas, shallots and lemon zest to the creamy ricotta, and blended it all together. Just this alone is enough to make me happy. It’s honestly so simple, yet so delicious. You could add it to just about about anything, but am feeling a little inspired to try it out on a grilled pizza (how good does that sound?!). I love how the sweet peas aren’t overpowered by the light creamy ricotta and how the lemon helps brighten everything up.
To top off the ricotta, I made a simple salad of fresh peas, thinly sliced radishes, mint, lemon juice and olive oil. I tossed it all together and then generously topped each piece of toast. For an extra garnish, and pop of green, I added pea, radish and sunflower shoots from a local herb and garden center here in Connecticut, Gilberties. I love ALL of the Gilberties products, but their arugula and micro greens are hands down my favorite. I can usually find Gilberties at our local farmer’s market (which is my favorite way to shop), but thankfully for all of us locals most of our grocery stores now carry a wide variety of their products. I love supporting local business, especially ones that are creating such beautiful produce like they are.
I am so excited about the way this little dish came together in such a big way. This pea and ricotta toast is so simple and easy to prepare, but packs in so many bright spring flavors. Wonderful for spring and summer entertaining, or simply for an afternoon snack. It’s everything spring should be, in one little bite.
If you’re looking for other spring recipes, be sure to check out my cous cous salad with spring vegetables. One of the most popular recipes here on the blog!
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