Description
This Coppa Focaccia Toast with Zhug is a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired appetizer featuring toasted focaccia bread topped with creamy ricotta, spicy Zhug sauce, ripe avocado slices, and savory coppa. Perfect for a quick yet flavorful snack or elegant starter, this dish balances creamy, spicy, and salty tastes with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Toast Base
- 4 slices fresh focaccia bread
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Toppings
- 4 oz sliced coppa (cured pork)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup zhug (Yemeni green chili sauce)
Seasoning and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Microgreens or arugula for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the focaccia: Lightly toast the focaccia slices in a toaster or on a skillet over medium heat until they are golden and crisp, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. This creates a crunchy base to hold the toppings without becoming soggy.
- Prepare the ricotta spread: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with olive oil, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated, creating a creamy and tangy spread.
- Assemble the toasts: Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture evenly over each toasted focaccia slice, ensuring full coverage for flavor and moisture balance.
- Add coppa and avocado: Layer the slices of coppa over the ricotta, then arrange the avocado slices on top to add creaminess and richness.
- Drizzle with zhug: Spoon zhug sauce over each toast, adjusting the amount according to your preferred heat level. Zhug adds a fresh, spicy kick that complements the savory toppings.
- Garnish and serve: Finish by garnishing with microgreens or arugula, if desired, for a fresh herbal note and visual appeal. Serve the toasts immediately while they’re still warm and crisp for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- Zhug is a spicy, herbaceous sauce—adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance.
- If you can’t find coppa, substitute with prosciutto or speck for a similar cured meat flavor.
- This recipe also works well as an open-faced sandwich or cut into small squares for appetizers.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free focaccia bread.
