Name: Cottage Cheese & Pesto Bruschetta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling); 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish); 1 cup cottage cheese; ¼ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

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Introduction

Cottage Cheese & Pesto Bruschetta is a fresh, satisfying twist on the classic Italian appetizer. Creamy cottage cheese blends perfectly with vibrant basil pesto, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor. It’s quick to make and ideal for entertaining or a light snack.

A white cutting board on a white marbled surface holds two slices of light brown bread with a soft, airy texture and crusty edges positioned on the left side. To the right, a bright red tomato with a green stem sits above a small fresh green basil sprig. At the top of the board, there are three small white bowls: the left bowl contains coarse salt and ground black pepper, the middle bowl is filled with vibrant green pesto sauce with a rough texture, and the metal measuring cup on the right is heaped with white cottage cheese, showing small curds. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup cottage cheese
¼ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush each lightly with olive oil. Toast for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the cottage cheese and basil pesto until smooth and well mixed.
Step 3: Toss the diced cherry tomatoes with salt and black pepper in a separate bowl to season evenly.
Step 4: Spread a generous layer of the cottage cheese and pesto mixture onto each toasted baguette slice, then top with the seasoned tomatoes.
Step 5: Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using, sprinkle with fresh basil, and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and crisp textures.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on top before serving.
You can substitute ricotta for cottage cheese if you prefer a creamier texture.
Try using sun-dried tomato pesto for a richer, deeper flavor.
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, a light drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar works well too.

Storage

Assemble just before serving to keep the bread crisp. If you have leftovers, store the toppings separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toast fresh baguette slices and assemble again before serving. Avoid storing assembled bruschetta to prevent soggy bread.

How to Serve

The image shows five slices of toasted bread, each slice topped with a thick layer of crumbled white cheese and green pesto spread evenly. On top of the cheese and pesto, there are two bright red cherry tomato halves arranged neatly on each slice. A dark balsamic glaze is drizzled across the tomatoes, adding shine and color contrast. One slice in the front is garnished with a fresh green basil leaf, giving a pop of vibrant green. All the toasts are placed on a white marble textured surface with a soft, neutral-colored cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the pesto from scratch?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil tastes wonderful and can easily replace store-bought pesto in this recipe.

What can I use if I don’t have cottage cheese?

You can substitute ricotta cheese or even cream cheese for a similar creamy base. Each option will slightly alter the texture and flavor but still work well.