The Calabrian Kiss

Ingredients

• •1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• •2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• •1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• •1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• •1 clove garlic, minced
• •1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• •4 ounces high
• •quality Calabrian or spicy Italian salami, thinly sliced
• •1/2 cup Castelvetrano olives, pitted and roughly chopped
• •2 tablespoons fresh basil, thinly sliced (chiffonade)
• •Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Prep Steps

1. 1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush both sides of the baguette slices with olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet. Toast for 8 minutes
2. 2minutes, or until golden and crisp. Remove and let cool slightly.
3. 3In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season lightly with salt and pepper. Whip the mixture with a fork until light and fluffy.
4. 4Spread a generous layer of the whipped ricotta mixture onto each toasted crostini.
5. 5Top the ricotta with a few slices of salami and a spoonful of the chopped Castelvetrano olives.
6. 6Garnish with fresh basil chiffonade and a final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, if desired. Serve immediately.