When the sun is setting and you’re not quite ready for dinner but need a satisfying bite and drink, that calls for happy hour at home. For a light yet flavorful happy hour recipe, this Pear Ricotta Toast is a must-try. The creamy blend of ricotta cheese and Greek yogurt, paired with the sweetness of fresh pear, creates a beautiful balance of textures and flavors. With herbs like dill, parsley, and mint adding an aromatic freshness, this toast is perfect for a happy hour bite, a quick breakfast, snack, or even a light lunch.

The addition of honey and flake salt gives it just the right touch of sweetness and seasoning, while the microgreens provide a final burst of freshness. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy weekend morning or sharing it with guests, this simple yet sophisticated toast is sure to impress.

Pear Ricotta Toast Ingredients (2 servings)

• 2 thick slices of sourdough bread

• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt

• 1 teaspoon olive oil + more for toast

• salt and pepper to taste

• 1 clove of garlic

• 1 pear, sliced

• 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped

• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/2 teaspoon of mint, chopped

• 1 tablespoon micro greens chopped

• honey, to drizzle

• 1/4 lemon, juice to finish

• flake salt to finish

Pear Ricotta Toast Instructions

• place a cast iron skillet over medium high heat. add olive oil. Place toast in skillet and toast evenly on each side until golden brown.

• remove toast from pan and set aside

• in a medium mixing bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste

• rub garlic on both sides of the toast

• spread a thick layer of the ricotta mixture onto the toast

• sprinkle flake salt over the top

• layer the pears onto the toast

• drizzle honey over the pears

• season with cracked black pepper and a little more flake salt

• toss the herbs and greens and top over the toast

• drizzle greens with olive oil and lemon juice and enjoy!

Pear Ricotta Toast Wine + Cocktail Pairings

Wine pairing: For your Pear Ricotta Toast, a light and crisp white wine would pair beautifully. Here are a few great options:

• Sauvignon Blanc: Its bright acidity and citrus notes will complement the sweetness of the pear and balance the creamy ricotta and yogurt mixture.

• Pinot Grigio: With its light body and fresh, clean flavors, Pinot Grigio pairs well with the delicate flavors of the toast, especially the fresh herbs and micro greens.

• Chenin Blanc: This wine often has a hint of honeyed sweetness and floral notes, making it a nice match for the drizzle of honey and the mild sweetness of the pear.

These wines will enhance the flavors of the dish without overpowering it.

A light, refreshing cocktail that pairs beautifully with your Pear Ricotta Toast is a Gin Lemon Fizz. Its citrusy brightness and herbal notes will complement the delicate pear, herbs, and ricotta on the toast.

Here’s a recipe for two servings:

Ingredients:

• 3 oz gin (preferably a floral or citrus-forward gin)

• 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice (about half a lemon)

• 1 oz simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)

• 2 oz sparkling water or club soda

• Ice

• Lemon peel and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Add ice and shake until chilled.

2. Strain the mixture into two glasses filled with ice.

3. Top each glass with sparkling water or club soda.

4. Garnish with a twist of lemon peel and a mint sprig.

This cocktail will enhance the pear's sweetness and balance the creamy ricotta with its tart, bubbly finish!