Asparagus and Ricotta Flatbread!

Asparagus and Ricotta Flatbread. This dish is light yet flavorful, with the creamy ricotta cheese and the crispiness of the roasted asparagus, making it perfect as an appetizer, light meal, or snack.

Asparagus and Ricotta Flatbread

Ingredients:

For the Flatbread:

• 1 store-bought or homemade flatbread (or pizza dough if preferred)

  • For Homemade Flatbread:

    • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

    • 1/2 tsp salt

    • 1/2 tsp baking powder

    • 1/2 cup warm water

    • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping:

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (full-fat or part-skim)

• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional for extra cheesiness)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for roasting the asparagus)

• 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Flatbread (If Using Homemade Dough)

1. Mix the Dough:

   • In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the warm water and olive oil, stirring to combine.

   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour. Let it rest for 10 minutes.

2. Roll Out the Dough:

   • Roll the dough out on a floured surface into your desired shape, about 1/8-inch thick.

Step 2: Roast the Asparagus

1. Prepare the Asparagus:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Toss the trimmed asparagus pieces with 1 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

   • Spread the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 8-10 minutes, or until tender and slightly crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Flatbread

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • If using a store-bought flatbread, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.

2. Spread the Ricotta:

   • Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the prepared flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.

3. Add the Toppings:

   • Arrange the roasted asparagus evenly over the ricotta cheese. Sprinkle with mozzarella (if using), a bit of lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if desired).

Step 4: Bake the Flatbread

1. Bake the Flatbread:

   • Place the flatbread in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden, and the cheese is melted.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Finish and Serve:

   • Remove the flatbread from the oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze (if using).

   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, additional lemon zest, and a final sprinkle of salt and pepper.

   • Slice and serve immediately.

Q&A Section:

Q1: Can I use other vegetables besides asparagus?

Yes! You can easily swap out the asparagus for other vegetables like roasted mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even spinach. Just make sure the veggies are pre-cooked or roasted before adding them to the flatbread.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the flatbread with the ricotta and asparagus ahead of time, then bake it when you’re ready to serve. Store the unbaked flatbread in the fridge for up to a day.

Q3: Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free flatbread or pizza dough in place of regular dough. Many grocery stores offer gluten-free options, or you can find recipes online for homemade gluten-free flatbread.

Q4: How do I make this more flavorful?

If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding some garlic to the ricotta cheese or a few dollops of pesto. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan over the top before baking for added richness.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the flatbread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to crisp it up again.

This Asparagus and Ricotta Flatbread is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a light lunch, a party appetizer, or a side dish. The creamy ricotta pairs perfectly with the fresh asparagus, and the optional balsamic glaze adds a nice tangy finish! Enjoy!