Cucumber & Ricotta Toast

4.3

(4)

3 Reviews

This light and invigorating breakfast pairs the crispness of cucumber with the creamy richness of ricotta, offering flavors that awaken the senses and energize your morning routine. Enjoy this easy toast when cucumbers are at their best during the summer.

Renu Anshie Dhar

Published on June 10, 2024

Tested by

Amanda Holstein

Reviewed by Dietitian

Emily Lachtrupp, M.S., RD

a recipe photo of the Cucumber Toast — Photo:
Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless

Active Time:

15 mins

Total Time:

15 mins

Servings:

Nutrition Profile:

Sesame-Free Nut-Free Soy-Free Vegetarian Egg-Free No Added Sugar

If you want a savory breakfast toast that doesn’t involve avocado or eggs, this Cucumber & Ricotta Toast may be just what you’re looking for. We love the contrast of the creamy ricotta and the fresh, crunchy cucumbers. The zippy lemon zest and subtle heat from the crushed red pepper are just what you need to get going in the morning. And the protein from the ricotta and fiber from the bread will help you stay satisfied all morning long. Keep reading for make-ahead tips and substitutions to make what’s sure to be your new favorite breakfast.

Tips from the EatingWell Test Kitchen

These are the key tips we learned while developing and testing this recipe in our Test Kitchen to make sure it works, tastes great and is good for you too!

Slice the cucumbers so they’re nice and thin. Thin-sliced cucumbers will soak up the lemon-and-herb marinade more quickly, and they’ll stay tender and crisp.
Instead of cucumber slices, you can cut the cucumbers into long ribbons or chop them into bite-size pieces.
You can prep some of the ingredients ahead to save time. Slice the cucumber and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to five days. Chop the herbs, toss them in oil and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week. When ready to assemble this breakfast toast, simply toss the cucumbers in the herb seasoning and proceed with the recipe.
If you don’t have ricotta cheese on hand, you can substitute it with goat cheese, feta or cottage cheese. However, because these cheeses are saltier, be sure to reduce the amount of salt in the recipe.

Nutrition Notes

Cucumbers are 95% water, making them a great hydrating veggie. The nutrients and antioxidants in cucumbers support healthy skin and may protect against cancer and diabetes.
Ricotta cheese, like other types of cheese, provides calcium and protein. Ricotta is a low-sodium cheese, so adding a touch of salt to this Cucumber & Ricotta Toast won’t put you over your daily limit.
Whole-wheat bread is a type of whole-grain bread. It’s made by grinding the entire wheat kernel, which preserves most of the wheat’s fiber and nutrients. Whole-wheat bread also provides plant-based protein, which combined with the fiber will help keep you full and satisfied.

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Ingredients

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup thinly sliced English cucumber
1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese, at room temperature
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
4 slices whole-wheat bread, toasted

Directions

Stir mint, dill, oil, lemon juice, crushed red pepper and salt together in a small bowl until well combined. Add cucumber; toss to combine.

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
Whisk ricotta and lemon zest in a medium bowl. Top toast slices with the ricotta mixture (about 1/4 cup each) followed by the cucumber mixture (about 1/4 cup each). Serve immediately.

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 toast

Calories 251, Fat 13g, Saturated Fat 6g, Cholesterol 32mg, Carbohydrates 22g, Total Sugars 3g, Added Sugars 0g, Protein 13g, Fiber 3g, Sodium 393mg, Potassium 232mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between English and American cucumbers?

English cucumbers, which we call for in this recipe, are thinner, straighter and longer, and can grow up to 2 feet long, while American cucumbers range from 6 to 9 inches. In addition, English cucumbers have fewer and smaller seeds, and the flesh is sweeter. Plus, they’re unwaxed and have thin, tender skin, so you don’t need to peel them.
What should I serve with cucumber toast?

This recipe would pair nicely with a side of scrambled eggs, a Mushroom Omelet or our Crispy Skillet Breakfast Potatoes, which you can make up to two days ahead of time. If it’s a hot and humid morning, a green smoothie or a side of watermelon and berries would be extra refreshing.
What are some ways to use up ricotta cheese?

In addition to using it on all kinds of toast with various fruits, adding it to pancake batter and dolloping it on salads, you can use it in our Ricotta & Yogurt Parfait, Fig & Ricotta Overnight Oats or Tomato Pie. And it’s a great addition to desserts like our Blueberry-Lemon-Ricotta Cupcakes.

Additional reporting by Carrie Myers, M.S. and Linda Frahm

EatingWell.com, June 2024