Naan with Ricotta, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Olive Tapenade

Naan with Ricotta, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Olive Tapenade is a delicious and flavorful savory flatbread that brings together the convenience of prebaked naan bread with a combination of rich, tangy, and crunchy toppings. The recipe takes advantage of the traditional Indian flatbread, naan, as a ready-made crust, making it quick and easy to prepare. The toppings include a delectable mix of creamy ricotta and Parmesan cheese, zesty garlic and lemon juice, and a delightful combination of sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, pine nuts, and scallions. The result is a delightful burst of Mediterranean flavors that will impress your taste buds. This recipe serves 2 to 3 people, making it an excellent option for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.

SERVES 2 TO 3

INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 (8-inch) naan breads
• 4 ounces (½ cup) whole-milk ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1½ teaspoons lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon pepper
• 3 tablespoons oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, rinsed, patted dry, and chopped fine
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped pitted kalamata olives
• 1½ tablespoons pine nuts
• 1 scallion, sliced thin

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Adjust the oven rack to the lowest position and preheat the oven to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Brush a baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place the naan breads on the sheet.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta, grated Parmesan, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, pine nuts, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
5. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over each naan, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
6. Scatter the tomato-olive mixture evenly over the top.
7. Bake the naan in the preheated oven until golden brown around the edges, approximately 8 to 10 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through baking.
8. Sprinkle the flatbread with sliced scallions, cut into wedges, and serve immediately.

VARIATION: Naan with Roasted Red Peppers, Feta, and Olives

1. Adjust the oven rack to the lowest position and preheat the oven to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Brush a baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place the naan breads on the sheet.
3. In a food processor, process the roasted red peppers and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil until smooth, about 30 seconds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the red pepper puree evenly over each naan, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
5. Scatter the crumbled feta and chopped kalamata olives evenly over the top.
6. Bake the naan in the preheated oven until golden brown around the edges, approximately 8 to 10 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through baking.
7. Sprinkle the flatbread with fresh parsley, cut into wedges, and serve.

TIPS:

• Choosing Naan: Look for prebaked naan bread at your local grocery store or bakery. You can opt for plain or flavored naan, depending on your preference.
• Ricotta Texture: For a creamy and smooth ricotta mixture, use either whole-milk or part-skim ricotta. Avoid using fat-free ricotta, as it may not provide the desired richness.
• Toppings Variety: Feel free to customize the toppings based on your taste. You can add or substitute ingredients such as roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, caramelized onions, or cherry tomatoes.
• Baking Sheet Position: Placing the baking sheet on the lowest rack of the oven allows the naan to crisp up nicely without overcooking the toppings.
• Preparation Time: This flatbread comes together quickly, so have all the ingredients prepped and ready before assembling and baking.

Enjoy these delightful variations of naan flatbreads as a quick and flavorful meal option that combines the best of Mediterranean flavors with the convenience of naan bread. These flatbreads are perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or even as appetizers for a gathering. Get creative with the toppings and make them your own!