Mediterranean Crispy Flatbread with Ricotta, Roasted Apples & Walnuts with a Hot Honey Drizzle
This Mediterranean-inspired flatbread is the perfect mix of savory, sweet, and spicy. The crisp base is layered with creamy ricotta, caramelized apples, and toasted walnuts, then finished with a drizzle of hot honey for a bold kick. It’s simple to prepare but feels gourmet, making it great for an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal paired with a fresh salad.
Time: 25 minutes (10 min prep, 15 min cook)
Ingredients
For the Flatbread:
1 pre-made flatbread or thin pizza crust
2 tbsp olive oil
For the Roasted Apples:
2 medium apples, thinly sliced
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp brown sugar
For Topping:
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/3 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
2 tbsp honey
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Optional Garnish:
Fresh thyme or mint
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the apples: Toss sliced apples with olive oil, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 10–12 minutes, until tender and caramelized.
Crisp the flatbread: While the apples roast, brush the flatbread with a little olive oil. Place it directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet and bake for 5–7 minutes until lightly golden and crisp.
Make hot honey: In a small bowl, mix honey with cayenne pepper (adjust spiciness to your liking). Warm slightly if desired.
Assemble the flatbread: Spread a layer of ricotta over the warm flatbread. Arrange roasted apple slices on top, then sprinkle with toasted walnuts.
Finish & serve: Drizzle with hot honey and garnish with fresh thyme or mint. Slice into pieces and enjoy warm.
Tips & Variations
Cheese Options:
Instead of ricotta, try goat cheese for tanginess, mascarpone for extra creaminess, or feta for a salty-sweet balance.
Fruit Swaps:
Pears work beautifully in place of apples. For a fall twist, try roasted figs or plums.
Nut Variations:
Almonds, pecans, or pistachios can replace walnuts. Toasting them enhances flavor.
Spice Adjustments:
If cayenne is too strong, use chili flakes for milder heat or skip it for a sweeter honey drizzle. For extra warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the apples.
Flatbread Options:
Naan, lavash, or thin pita can replace the pre-made flatbread. For homemade touch, use a simple pizza dough rolled thin.
Make It Savory-Sweet:
Add thin slices of prosciutto or crispy pancetta on top before drizzling the honey for a sweet-and-salty flavor combo.
Fresh Finish:
Garnish with arugula or baby spinach instead of thyme/mint for a peppery, fresh contrast.
Drizzle Variations:
Instead of hot honey, try balsamic glaze for a tangy sweetness or pomegranate molasses for a Middle Eastern twist.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this flatbread ahead of time?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh so the flatbread stays crispy. You can roast the apples and toast the walnuts in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving.
Q: What kind of apples work best?
A: Crisp, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Fuji balance the sweetness of the honey and creaminess of the ricotta.
Q: Is there a way to make this lighter?
A: Use part-skim ricotta and reduce the honey drizzle. You can also swap walnuts for almonds, which are lower in calories.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian-friendly?
A: Yes, it’s already vegetarian. To make it vegan, use a dairy-free ricotta alternative and substitute maple syrup or agave for honey.
Q: What pairs well with this dish?
A: Serve with a side salad of mixed greens, citrus vinaigrette, or even a glass of crisp white wine for a light meal or appetizer.
Nutrition
(per serving, 4 servings total)
Calories: ~310
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: ~280mg
(Values may vary depending on flatbread brand and portion size.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Crispy Flatbread with Ricotta, Roasted Apples & Walnuts is the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and spicy. The hot honey drizzle elevates simple ingredients into a bold and memorable dish. It’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer at gatherings, a light lunch, or even a unique dessert-style flatbread. With plenty of room for customization, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors in a creative twist.