summer savory: honey-tomato bruschetta

image via {here}

hello mes chéries!  another summer recipe for you to enjoy, this time in the appetizer/hors d'oeuvre realm.  

please please don't be put off by the combination of honey and tomatoes, the honey simply brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, and combined with the thyme and salt, is simply divine.  the creamy ricotta {buy as fresh as possible} adds a richness and balances the tomatoes, and the basil and extra drizzle of buckwheat honey contribute a burst of flavor and slightly peppery or spicy punch. 

perfect for entertaining and bon appetit! 

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adapted from food and wine august 2008:

in a large bowl, toss 2 pints of cherry tomatoes halved lengthwise with 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons clover honey, 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and a few grinds of pepper.  transfer mixture, using a rubber spatula to get all of the delicious liquid, to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper {for easy clean up}. make sure all of the tomatoes are cut-side up.  bake at a low 300F for 1 hour 25 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to shrivel.  let them cool.  

{you can make these ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days, just bring to room temperature before using.}

to make the bruschetta, cut from a baguette 12 slices 1/2 thick and on the bias, brush with some olive oil for richness, if you'd like, and place on a baking sheet.  under a preheated broiler, toast for 30 seconds on each side, until the edges are golden brown.

spread 1 cup {8 ounces} fresh ricotta over the baguette slices and top with the honey roasted tomatoes.  then sprinkle with a chiffonade of basil leaves {6 large leaves total, thinly sliced or torn}, and a drizzle of buckwheat or chestnut honey, if available.  

{the world will not end if you use everyday clover honey for the extra drizzle, but seeking out buckwheat or chestnut will be worth it, i promise.}

these look gorgeous served on simple white platter, allowing the brilliant summer colors to sing.

finally,

do make sure to save one for yourself before your guests devour the entire batch!  

trés délicieux, non?  xx hillary 

p.s. serves six.