Sesame Halva Ricotta Toast
Whipped ricotta and crumbled tahini halva piled on toasted sourdough with honey and pistachios for a sweet-savory breakfast.
A drizzle of honey ties everything together, while chopped pistachios add a satisfying crunch. This is the kind of breakfast that feels indulgent but comes together in minutes. It's perfect for a slow weekend morning or a special brunch spread.
If you've never had halva before, you're in for a treat. It's a Middle Eastern confection made from sesame paste and sugar, often marbled with pistachios or chocolate. Here, it turns a simple slice of toast into something memorable.
Ingredients
- 2 thick slices sourdough bread
- 200 g (7 oz) whole-milk ricotta
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Pinch of sea salt
- 80 g (3 oz) plain tahini halva, crumbled
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 2 tablespoons shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
- Optional: a few fresh mint leaves, torn
Instructions
- Toast the sourdough slices until golden and crisp, either in a toaster or on a hot griddle pan.
- In a small bowl, whisk the ricotta with the olive oil and a pinch of sea salt until smooth and slightly fluffy, about 1 minute.
- Divide the whipped ricotta between the toasted bread slices, spreading it thickly to the edges.
- Crumble the halva over the ricotta, letting some pieces fall naturally.
- Drizzle with honey and scatter the chopped pistachios on top.
- Finish with torn mint leaves, if using, and serve immediately.
Cook’s tips
- Use a good-quality tahini halva for the best flavor; plain or pistachio varieties work well.
- Whipping the ricotta with a fork or small whisk makes it lighter and easier to spread.
- Toast the bread until quite crisp so it holds up to the creamy toppings.
Substitutions
- Swap sourdough for whole-grain or gluten-free bread if preferred.
- Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan version (note: halva may contain honey, check labels).
- Use walnuts or almonds instead of pistachios.
Storage & reheating
Best assembled and eaten fresh, but the whipped ricotta can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Frequently asked questions
What is halva?
Halva is a dense, sweet confection made from sesame paste (tahini) and sugar, often flavored with pistachios, chocolate, or vanilla. It has a crumbly, melt-in-the-mouth texture.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use a dairy-free ricotta alternative and maple syrup instead of honey. Check that your halva is vegan, as some brands contain honey.
How do I store leftover halva?
Wrap halva tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can whip the ricotta up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Assemble the toast just before serving for the best texture.
