Description
This Coppa Focaccia Toast with Zhug is a vibrant Mediterranean appetizer featuring crispy toasted focaccia topped with creamy ricotta, spicy Yemeni zhug sauce, savory coppa, and fresh avocado slices. Perfectly balanced with a hint of lemon and garnished with microgreens or arugula, it offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures ideal for a quick snack or elegant starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Toast Base
- 4 slices fresh focaccia bread
Toppings
- 4 oz sliced coppa (cured pork)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup zhug (Yemeni green chili sauce)
Ricotta Mixture
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish (Optional)
- Microgreens or arugula
Instructions
- Toast the Focaccia: Lightly toast the focaccia slices either in a toaster or on a skillet over medium heat until they turn golden brown and crisp on the outside. This will create a sturdy base with a satisfying crunch.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with lemon juice, olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy, balancing the acidity and seasoning to enhance flavor.
- Assemble the Toast: Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture on each toasted focaccia slice, ensuring even coverage for creaminess in every bite.
- Add Coppa and Avocado: Layer the slices of coppa evenly over the ricotta, followed by the avocado slices arranged neatly on top to add richness and freshness.
- Drizzle with Zhug: Drizzle each toast with zhug sauce according to your preferred heat level. The spicy, herbaceous sauce brings a vibrant kick that elevates the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, top with microgreens or arugula for a peppery freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately while the toast is still warm and crisp for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- Zhug is a spicy, herbaceous sauce — adjust the quantity to suit your tolerance for heat.
- If coppa is unavailable, prosciutto or speck make excellent substitutes that maintain the cured pork flavor.
- This recipe works beautifully as an open-faced sandwich or can be cut into small squares to serve as elegant appetizers at gatherings.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free focaccia bread.
