I don’t want to speak too soon, but it feels like the weather might finally be getting nicer. And that means summer happy hours on the porch! My sister usually stops over after work, and she, along with my mom and I, all hang out on the porch until the sun goes down. I’ve already started thinking about what apps I can make for those cool summer days, and these ricotta crostini came to me. I love the sweet taste of caramelized strawberries mixed with the mild ricotta. A touch of basil (mint would be great, too) adds an earthy twist. This tasty app is so simple to make because it requires so few ingredients.

Ingredients: Makes 10 crostini
10 baguette slices
Olive oil
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1 tablespoon water
1/2 teaspoon white sugar
3/4 cup ricotta cheese
Honey drizzle
basil

Directions:
In a small pot, add fresh strawberries, water, and sugar, and cook on low heat for about 10 minutes. Remove strawberries from heat and let cool 30 minutes. Drizzle baguette slices with olive oil and toast until lightly brown. Top crostini with a spoonful of ricotta, then add strawberries. Finish with fresh basil and honey and serve.