Roasted Tomato & Spinach Artichoke Crostini

These Roasted Tomato Spinach Artichoke Crostini are topped with creamy Alouette Spinach & Artichoke Cheese, blistered tomatoes, basil, and lemon zest for an easy appetizer that feels effortlessly elevated.

Roasted Tomato Spinach Artichoke Crostini

As promised from my “5 Delicious Ways I’m Using Alouette Spinach & Artichoke Cheese” roundup post—here’s the very first full recipe in the series, and honestly, it might be one of my favorites. Over the next several Tuesdays, I’ll be sharing the remaining recipes one by one, but this roasted tomato crostini felt like the perfect place to start.

The creamy spinach artichoke cheese spread melts slightly into the warm grilled sourdough while the roasted tomatoes turn sweet, soft, and almost jammy in the oven. Finished with fresh basil and bright lemon zest, every bite hits that perfect balance of creamy, crispy, savory, and fresh. It tastes like something you’d order at a cozy Mediterranean wine bar, yet it comes together with surprisingly little effort.

This is the kind of appetizer that instantly makes a gathering feel a little more special without creating extra work in the kitchen. Set the crostini out with a glass of wine, a simple salad, or part of a relaxed grazing board and suddenly the whole evening feels effortlessly put together.

The fresh basil and lemon zest at the end completely wake everything up and make the whole platter taste bright, savory, and fresh.

Ingredients

• Mini Sourdough Boule - The chewy texture and crisp edges make the perfect base for crostini. Grilling the bread adds even more flavor and texture.

• Alouette Spinach & Artichoke Spread - Creamy, savory, and already packed with flavor, this acts as both the spread and the flavor base for the entire recipe.

• Cherry Tomatoes - Roasting concentrates their sweetness and creates a soft, almost jammy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.

• Garlic - A small amount adds warmth and depth to the roasted tomatoes without overpowering them.

• Olive Oil - Used both for roasting and grilling to create rich flavor and golden crisp edges.

• Fresh Basil - Adds freshness and brightness that balances the richness of the cheese spread.

• Lemon Zest - The finishing touch that wakes everything up and makes the flavors feel lighter and fresher.

Equipment

• Sheet pan or baking dish
• Grill pan or skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Citrus zester
• Serrated knife
• Serving platter

My Go-To’s

• Grill Pan - Creates beautiful charred edges and adds extra flavor to the bread.

• Microplane Zester - Perfect for finely grating lemon zest directly over the finished crostini.

• Ceramic Baking Dish - Ideal for roasting tomatoes evenly while keeping all the flavorful juices contained.

Let’s Make It Together

Start by roasting the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until they become soft and blistered.

While the tomatoes roast, grill the sourdough slices in a hot grill pan brushed lightly with olive oil until golden with crisp edges.

Spread a generous layer of Alouette Spinach & Artichoke Cheese onto the warm crostini, then spoon the roasted tomatoes and their juices over the top.

Finish with torn basil and fresh lemon zest before serving.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to this recipe is roasting the tomatoes until they blister. Blistering happens when the heat causes the tomato skins to wrinkle and split slightly while the inside becomes soft, juicy, and concentrated in flavor. You want the tomatoes tender and glossy—not dried out—so keep an eye on them toward the end of roasting.

Add Your Touch

• Add balsamic glaze for sweetness
• Top with prosciutto for a heartier appetizer
• Swap basil for fresh thyme
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Set the Mood

Food is about more than just the recipe—it’s about the moment around the table. Here are a few simple ideas to set the mood when you serve this dish.

This is exactly the kind of appetizer I love making lately—simple ingredients layered together in a way that feels cozy, fresh, and just a little elevated. The creamy spinach artichoke cheese paired with sweet roasted tomatoes creates something that tastes far more complicated than it actually is.

This crostini is also the very first recipe in my “5 Delicious Ways I’m Using Alouette Spinach & Artichoke Cheese (Beyond the Dip Bowl)” series, where I’m sharing easy ways to turn one grocery-store find into dinners, brunch ideas, appetizers, and entertaining dishes throughout the week.

If you missed the original roundup post, you can click the link above to see all five recipes in the series, including creamy pasta, stuffed chicken, savory breakfast toast, and a rustic puff pastry tart still coming over the next several Tuesdays.

And if this crostini is any indication, this ingredient has officially earned a permanent spot in my refrigerator lately.

Before You Start

Can I make these ahead of time?  
You can roast the tomatoes ahead of time, but assemble the crostini just before serving so the bread stays crisp.

What bread works best?  
Sourdough, or any rustic artisan loaf with structure works well.

Can I serve this cold?  
It’s best slightly warm or at room temperature.

Do I have to grill the bread?  
No—toast it in the oven if preferred, but the grill pan adds great texture and flavor.

What can I do with leftover spread?  
Use it in pasta, stuffed chicken, breakfast toast, or puff pastry recipes throughout the week.

5 Delicious Ways I’m Using Alouette Spinach & Artichoke Cheese (Beyond the Dip Bowl)

 

Looking for creative ways to use spinach & artichoke cheese spread? These 5 easy recipes include pasta, crostini, chicken, breakfast toast, and a puff pastry tart.

Some grocery finds don’t stay in the “snack” category for long. The moment I brought home Alouette Spinach & Artichoke Spread, I realized it wasn’t just something to put out with crackers—it’s more like a shortcut ingredient that quietly turns into dinners, breakfasts, and easy entertaining food.

It’s creamy, savory, a little tangy, and already layered with herbs and artichoke flavor, which makes it incredibly versatile when you treat it like a base rather than a dip.

These are the five ways I’ve been using it lately—each one simple, seasonal, and very much in the “looks like effort, but isn’t” category.

Over the next several weeks, I'll be sharing each recipe in full--think of this post as the inspiration board to kick off the series.

1. Roasted Tomato & Spinach Artichoke Crostini

Crisp toasted baguette, creamy spinach artichoke spread, and blistered roasted cherry tomatoes come together in the easiest appetizer that still feels intentional.

Roasting the tomatoes first is key—it concentrates their sweetness and gives the crostini a warm, almost jammy contrast against the creamy cheese base. A little basil or balsamic at the end makes it feel finished.

Perfect for: quick entertaining, wine nights, or a low-effort appetizer board.

2. Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta with Lemon & Peas

This is one of those weeknight pastas that feels like it should take more steps than it does.

The cheese spread melts into a silky sauce with a splash of pasta water, while lemon brightens everything and peas add a pop of sweetness and texture. It’s rich but not heavy, which makes it ideal for spring and early summer dinners.

Perfect for: busy nights when you still want something comforting but fresh.

3. Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken with Garlic Butter Pan Sauce

This one leans a little more dinner-party without actually requiring dinner-party effort.

The cheese spread becomes a built-in filling for juicy chicken breasts, melting as they bake into something creamy and flavorful. A quick pan sauce with garlic, butter, and lemon pulls everything together and makes it feel restaurant-level with almost no extra work.

Perfect for: easy entertaining or a “special but simple” weeknight dinner.

4. Savory Breakfast Toast with Soft Eggs & Herbs

This is the kind of breakfast that feels like café food at home.

Warm sourdough gets a generous layer of spinach artichoke spread, then soft eggs are added on top so the yolk runs into the creamy base. Fresh herbs and a pinch of chili flakes bring everything into balance.

Perfect for: slow mornings, brunch at home, or a savory breakfast upgrade.

5. Puff Pastry Tart with Heirloom Tomatoes, Zucchini & Leeks

This one is my favorite “impressive but easy” use.

A sheet of puff pastry becomes the base, spread with spinach artichoke cheese, then layered with sautéed leeks, zucchini, and juicy heirloom tomatoes. As it bakes, everything softens and caramelizes into a rustic tart that looks far more complicated than it is.

Perfect for: brunch, light dinners, or serving with a salad and wine.

Why this ingredient works so well

What I like most about this ingredient is that it doesn’t disappear in recipes—it actually anchors them. Instead of building flavor from scratch every time, you’re starting with something already seasoned and letting it guide the dish.

That means:

• faster weeknight cooking
• easier entertaining
• and more flexibility with seasonal produce

The Bigger Idea

This is the kind of cooking I keep coming back to right now: simple ingredients that quietly do a lot of the work for you, so you can focus on freshness, texture, and how everything comes together on the plate.

I'll be sharing each recipe over the next several Tuesdays.

Enjoy!

Roasted Tomato Bruschetta with Whipped Goat & Ricotta

 

This Roasted Tomato Bruschetta with Whipped Goat & Ricotta is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh. Sweet blistered tomatoes are layered over toasted bread with a whipped goat cheese and ricotta spread for an easy appetizer, summer lunch, or entertaining recipe everyone will love.

Roasted Tomato Bruschetta with Whipped Goat & Ricotta

Lately I’ve been on a bit of an Italian cooking journey in my kitchen — slowing down, using simple ingredients, and letting those classic flavors really shine. Some recipes are comforting, some are impressive, and then every once in a while you make something that feels like both.

This Roasted Tomato Bruschetta with Whipped Goat & Ricotta was one of those recipes for me.

I’ve actually been making this whipped ricotta and goat cheese mixture constantly lately because it’s just that good. Creamy, tangy, rich, and incredibly versatile — it instantly makes simple ingredients feel elevated. The second I paired it with these warm roasted tomatoes and crispy toasted bread, I knew I had to share it with you.

The sweet burst tomatoes, creamy whipped cheese, crispy toasted bread, and all those savory juices soaking into every bite… it immediately felt like something I’d order at a cozy little wine bar and then think about for days afterward. After the first bite, I knew it was one I had to share with you.

It’s simple enough for a casual lunch, beautiful enough for entertaining, and honestly one of those recipes that makes ordinary ingredients taste incredibly special.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

• Cherry or grape tomatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt & Black pepper
• Goat cheese
• Ricotta cheese
• Thick sliced Multi-grain bread - or any rustic Italian bread or sliced baguette will work.  

Equipment

• Oven-safe baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Large skillet or grill pan
• Serrated knife
• Serving platter

-- Let’s Make It Together

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Add the tomatoes to an oven-safe baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper, then toss to coat. Roast for 15–20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and beginning to burst.

While the tomatoes roast, whisk together the goat cheese and ricotta until smooth and creamy.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle the bread slices with olive oil and toast until golden on both sides.

To assemble, spread the whipped cheese mixture onto the toasted bread and spoon the warm roasted tomatoes and juices over the top.

Serve immediately and enjoy warm.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to making this bruschetta truly exceptional is roasting the tomatoes just until they blister and release their juices without fully collapsing. Blistering simply means the tomato skins begin to wrinkle, split slightly, and develop lightly roasted spots while the inside becomes soft and juicy. Those concentrated juices mix beautifully with the whipped cheese and soak slightly into the toasted bread, creating layers of flavor and texture in every bite.

-- Add Your Touch

This recipe is incredibly flexible and easy to personalize depending on the season or occasion.

Try adding fresh basil, hot honey, balsamic glaze, or a drizzle of pesto for even more flavor. You could also top it with prosciutto for a more substantial appetizer or swap in whipped feta for a slightly saltier twist.

For entertaining, I love serving this on a large wooden board with olives, marinated vegetables, and a chilled glass of white wine.

Set the Mood

Food is about more than just the recipe—it’s about the moment around the table. Here are a few simple ideas to set the mood when you serve this dish.

If you love recipes that feel elevated without being complicated, this Roasted Tomato Bruschetta with Whipped Goat & Ricotta is one you’ll come back to again and again. It’s simple, beautiful, and packed with flavor in the best possible way.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how you served it and what personal touches you added.

And if you’re enjoying these cozy Italian-inspired recipes lately, be sure to check out my other fresh appetizers, easy entertaining recipes, and seasonal favorites.

Before You Start

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can roast the tomatoes and whip the cheese mixture ahead of time, but assemble the bruschetta just before serving so the bread stays crisp.

What bread works best?

You want a bread that toasts really well and has some heft to it so it doesn't sink when you add toppings to it.  A hearty multi-grain, Rustic Italian or baguette slices work beautifully because they hold up well to the toppings.

Can I use only goat cheese?

Yes, but the ricotta helps mellow the tanginess and creates a creamier texture.

How should I store leftovers?

Store the tomato mixture and whipped cheese separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toast fresh bread before serving again.

Can I serve this cold?

It’s best served warm or room temperature, though the leftovers are still delicious chilled.

Easy Bacon Egg Sandwich + 10 Flavor Variations

 

Looking for an easy bacon egg sandwich? This bacon, egg & cheddar breakfast sandwich is ready in 10 minutes with 10 delicious flavor variations to try.

Easy Bacon Egg Sandwich + 10 Flavor Variations

There’s something about a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich that just hits differently in the morning.

Maybe it’s the crispy, salty bacon. Or the soft, fluffy eggs layered with melty cheddar on warm, toasted bread. Or maybe it’s the fact that it feels a little indulgent—but still comes together in under 10 minutes, right in your own kitchen.

This easy bacon egg sandwich is the kind of recipe you make once… and then suddenly it becomes part of your weekly routine. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable depending on what you’re craving (or what’s in your fridge).

And that’s where this recipe really shines.

We’re not just making a classic—we’re building a go-to breakfast sandwich formula you can switch up anytime. From creamy avocado and pesto to spicy chili crisp or a drizzle of hot honey, these flavor variations turn one simple sandwich into something you’ll never get bored of.

Golden toast, crispy bacon, soft eggs, and melty cheese—this is the breakfast sandwich you’ll crave on repeat.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

• Thick-cut bacon - brings that rich, crispy texture that really makes this sandwich feel hearty and satisfying—regular bacon works, but thick-cut takes it to another level.

• Eggs -  the heart of the sandwich, adding a soft, fluffy layer that balances out the crispiness of the bacon.

• Whole grain bread - provides a sturdy base with a slightly nutty flavor, but sourdough, brioche, or English muffins all work beautifully depending on the texture you love.

• Cheddar cheese -  melts beautifully into the warm eggs, adding a sharp, savory richness that ties everything together.

• Salt and pepper -  enhance all the flavors and should be added to taste, especially to season the eggs just right.

• Butter or nonstick spray -  helps cook the eggs gently and prevents sticking, while adding a subtle richness to the final sandwich.

Equipment You’ll Need

A good nonstick skillet makes all the difference when cooking eggs low and slow—it helps prevent sticking and gives you that soft, fluffy texture without overcooking every time.

A sturdy rubber spatula is essential for gently scrambling the eggs and keeping them tender rather than breaking them up too much.

A toaster or skillet works for toasting the bread—using a skillet adds extra flavor, especially if you toast it after cooking the bacon.

A small mixing bowl is perfect for whisking the egg quickly and evenly before cooking.

A mini whisk or fork helps incorporate air into the eggs, which gives them that light, fluffy texture.

If you want to elevate your sandwich even more:

A cast iron skillet is great for cooking bacon evenly and adds a deeper, richer flavor over time.

A sandwich press or panini press can crisp the outside of the sandwich and melt the cheese perfectly for a more café-style finish.

-- Let’s Make It Together

Start by cooking your thick-cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s perfectly crispy and golden. Transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a splash of water until fully combined—this helps create that soft, fluffy texture. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and add a little butter or spray. Pour in the egg and gently scramble, moving it slowly around the pan until just set. Remove from heat while it’s still soft.

Toast your bread until warm and golden.

Now for the best part—building your sandwich. Place the cheddar cheese on the bottom slice of toast so it starts to melt from the heat. Add the scrambled eggs and season lightly with salt and pepper. Layer on the crispy bacon, then spread your favorite topping on the top slice of bread before placing it on top.

Slice, serve, and enjoy immediately while everything is warm and melty.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to a truly great bacon egg sandwich is cooking the eggs low and slow—this keeps them soft, creamy, and fluffy instead of dry. Pull them off the heat just before they’re fully set, and they’ll finish cooking from residual heat while staying perfectly tender. For even more flavor, toast your bread in the same skillet after cooking the bacon.

-- Add Your Touch (10 Flavor Variations)

Once you’ve mastered the classic version, this sandwich becomes your playground. Whether you’re craving something creamy, spicy, fresh, or a little sweet, these easy variations keep things interesting without adding extra effort.  

You can also swap the bacon for sausage, turkey bacon, or a plant-based option to fit your preference.

1. Avocado + Everything Bagel
Add smashed avocado and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for a fresh, creamy upgrade.

2. Hot Honey Bacon
Drizzle hot honey over the bacon for that irresistible sweet and spicy combo.

3. Pesto + Tomato
Spread pesto on the bread and add a slice of fresh tomato for a bright, herby twist.

4. Spicy Sriracha Mayo
Mix mayo with sriracha and spread it on the top slice for a creamy kick of heat.

5. Garlic Aioli Deluxe
Swap in garlic aioli and add a handful of arugula for a slightly elevated, café-style feel.

6. Cream Cheese + Chives
Spread cream cheese on the bread and finish with fresh chives for a rich, savory variation.

7. Chili Crisp Crunch
Add a spoonful of chili crisp for heat, texture, and a bold, slightly smoky flavor.

8. Maple Bacon Breakfast
Brush the bacon lightly with maple syrup while it cooks for a sweet, caramelized finish.

9. Pepper Jack + Jalapeño
Use pepper jack cheese and add sliced jalapeños for a spicy, melty version.

10. Fig Jam + Cheddar
Spread fig jam on the bread for a sweet and savory combo that pairs perfectly with sharp cheddar and bacon.

🤔 Which Flavor Should You Try First?

If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few easy picks depending on what you’re craving:

• Keep it classic: Go with the original bacon, egg, and cheddar—simple and always satisfying
• Craving something fresh: Try the Avocado + Everything or Pesto + Tomato
• Want a little heat: The Sriracha Mayo or Chili Crisp versions bring the perfect kick
• In the mood for sweet + savory: Hot Honey Bacon or Fig Jam + Cheddar are hard to beat

Set the Mood

Food is about more than just the recipe—it’s about the moment around the table. Here are a few simple ideas to set the mood when you serve this dish.

If you enjoyed this easy bacon egg sandwich, there are a few other recipes you might love next.

Try pairing this with another easy breakfast idea, or explore more quick morning recipes that keep mornings easy without sacrificing flavor. If you’re building confidence in the kitchen, this is exactly the kind of recipe that helps everything start to click.

→ Tomato Mozzarella Scrambled Eggs
→ 12 Simple Tips to Help You on Your Cooking Journey
→ Mini Waffle Bar 3 Ways

Before You Start

Can I make this ahead of time?
This sandwich is best fresh, but you can cook the bacon ahead and reheat it quickly when ready to assemble.

What’s the best bread to use?
Whole grain adds a hearty texture, but sourdough, brioche, or English muffins all work beautifully.

Can I fry the egg instead of scrambling?
Absolutely! A fried or over-easy egg adds a richer, more indulgent feel.

How do I keep the sandwich warm?
Wrap it in foil for a few minutes after assembling to keep everything warm and help the cheese melt even more.

Can I freeze this breakfast sandwich?
Yes! Assemble the sandwich (skip fresh toppings like avocado), wrap tightly, and freeze. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until warmed through.

 

 

 

The Best 24-Hour Neapolitan Pizza Dough for Home Ovens — Made by Hand

 

24 hours to the best pizza of your life. This hand-mixed Neapolitan dough delivers a chewy, airy, restaurant-quality crust right from your home oven.

The Best 24-Hour Neapolitan Pizza Dough for Home Ovens — Made by Hand

There are nights when nothing satisfies quite like a good pizza, and in our house, it’s one of our favorite meals to make from scratch. And honestly — give this dough just 24 hours, and you’re on your way to one of the best pizzas of your life.

So what makes a Neapolitan crust so special? It’s all about the texture and flavor: a chewy, airy interior with a delicate, blistered exterior that’s slightly charred in spots. To achieve that perfect crust requires a long, slow rise — 24 hours — which allows the yeast to work its magic and develop those complex flavors that you just don’t get with quick-rise doughs. The result is a dough that’s light and flavorful with that taste you’d expect from a pizzeria, right from your own oven.

This 24-hour Neapolitan pizza dough has become a favorite for those nights when we’re craving that the best restaurant style pizza, but don’t feel like eating out. With a handful of simple ingredients, a little planning ahead for that long slow rise, I get restaurant-quality results from my home oven.  You can too.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Just a few ingredients to a great pizza dough.

• ‘00’ Flour: The secret to that classic Neapolitan texture. Ultra-fine and soft, it creates a chewy, airy crust with just the right bite. I use this one.

• Instant Yeast: Helps your dough rise slowly over 24 hours, developing rich flavor and that irresistible, slightly tangy aroma.

• Sugar: Just a touch to give the yeast a little boost and enhance the natural flavors in the dough.

• Salt: Essential for flavor balance and strengthening the gluten, giving your pizza crust structure and chew.

Kitchen Notes & Tips

Making Neapolitan pizza dough at home is easier than you might think, but a few simple tricks can take your crust from good to restaurant-quality. Here’s what we’ve learned:

• Room Temperature Ingredients Matter: Yeast works best when it’s gently awakened. Make sure your dough ingredients are at room temperature so the fermentation happens evenly.

• Flour Your Surface Generously: When stretching the dough, a lightly floured countertop (and hands) keeps it from sticking while preserving that airy, soft interior.

• Use a Pizza Stone if You Can: Preheating a pizza stone creates a hot surface that mimics a pizzeria oven, giving your crust the perfect blistered, crisp bottom. If you don't have one see below for alternatives.

• Stretch, Don’t Roll: Use your fingers to gently coax it into a circle by stretching the dough. Rolling the dough can squash the bubbles that make a Neapolitan crust light and airy.

• Bake Hot & Fast: Your home oven set to 500ºF is ideal. The high heat ensures the edges puff up and char slightly while the center stays soft and chewy.

• Keep Toppings Simple: Less is more when it comes to toppings. Too many can weigh down the dough and prevent that signature airy texture. Choose quality ingredients, and let the dough shine.

• Experiment & Enjoy: Don’t stress about perfection. Every home-baked pizza is a little different — embrace the rustic charm and savor the process.

• Storing Your Dough for Later: Refrigerate: After the first rise, wrap unused dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature for about 30–60 minutes before shaping and baking. Freeze: Divide the dough into portions, wrap tightly in plastic, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Dough can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before stretching.

No Pizza Stone - No worries!

Don’t have a pizza stone? Discover clever alternatives that give your homemade pizza a perfectly crispy crust every time!

Pizza Topping Inspiration

Looking for pizza inspiration? Check out these simple topping ideas to turn your homemade Neapolitan dough into a masterpiece!

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