Artichoke-ricotta crostini

Ingredients

Baguette or loaf of country-style Italian bread
Extra virgin olive oil: 1/4 cup to brush on baguette slices and 3 tbsp. for toppings
8 oz. ricotta cheese
1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Zest of 1/2 lemon
1 tbsp. minced chives or scallions
1 tbsp. chopped parsley
2 artichoke hearts, poached and sliced thin (or use frozen artichoke hearts that have been thawed)
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Watercress, arugula or fava beans (optional garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Slice bread at a 45-degree angle about 1/2-inch thick to make 12 slices. Brush with 1/4 cup of the olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet. Bake until golden, 12 to 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, mix together cheeses, lemon zest, chives, parsley and 2 tbsp. of the olive oil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Place a spoonful on each toast. Toss artichokes with remaining 1 tbsp. olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish each toast with a few slices of the artichokes. Finish with watercress, arugula or fava beans, if desired.

Serves 4