Whipped Ricotta with Figs, Pistachio and Honey Toasts

MAKES 8 TOASTS

For these toasts, you can substitute walnut pieces for the toasted pistachios — just toast the nuts or candy them in honey in a frying pan. If your balsamic vinegar is aged and thick (from Modena is best), there’s no need to reduce.

1 cup ricotta

Zest of 1 lemon, juice of ½ lemon 1 sprig thyme, stem removed

Salt and pepper ¼ cup pistachios, hulled, roughly chopped 8 fresh figs, quartered 2 tbsp honey 2 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar, reduced 8 Simple Toasts (see recipe)

MAKE TOASTS

1. In small bowl, using fork, combine ricotta, lemon zest and juice, thyme, salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. In frying pan, toast nuts until fragrant. 3. Spread cheese mixture on Simple Toasts. Layer on figs, then nuts and drizzle with honey.

4. In small saucepan, boil balsamic vinegar for a few minutes to reduce and thicken. Drizzle over top.