Roasted Grape Flatbread Recipe

Cook Time: 50 minutes

This savory-sweet flatbread combines roasted grapes, creamy ricotta, and fresh greens, making it a perfect appetizer or light meal. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 (8-oz.) package refrigerated pizza dough (or use a 7-oz. purchased rectangle flatbread and skip ahead to Step 2)
• 4 cups seedless red grapes
• 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
• 2 cups watercress and/or arugula

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425F (220C). Grease a baking sheet.
2. Unroll the pizza dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 6 minutes to parbake the dough.
3. Meanwhile, line a 10x15-inch baking pan with foil. Arrange the grapes in the prepared pan. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon rosemary and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Toss to coat the grapes evenly.
4. Roast the grapes for about 40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the grapes are slightly charred. Once done, remove the grapes from the pan and pour the accumulated juices into a small bowl for later use.
5. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, parsley, black pepper, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon rosemary. Stir well to combine.
6. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the parbaked crust. Top with the roasted grapes and their juices.
7. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly golden and the crust is fully baked.
8. While the flatbread is baking, prepare the dressing by whisking together the reserved grape-roasting juices, white wine vinegar, and the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil, along with the remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt.
9. In a separate bowl, toss the watercress (and/or arugula) with the dressing.
10. Once the flatbread is done, remove it from the oven and top with the dressed greens. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Vegan Variation

If you'd like to make this recipe vegan, simply swap out the ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives.

Make It Meaty

For a more hearty version, top the flatbread with thin slices of prosciutto before baking in Step 5.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Information	Per Serving
Calories	377
Total Fat	13g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	17mg
Sodium	536mg
Total Carbohydrate	56g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Total Sugars	25g
Protein	11g
Vitamin C	11mg
Calcium	204mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	441mg

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

The roasted grape flatbread is a modern culinary twist on traditional Mediterranean flatbreads. Combining fresh grapes with creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, this dish is an example of how contemporary chefs are experimenting with fruit on savory breads. While the concept of pairing fruits with flatbreads can be traced back to the rich tradition of Mediterranean cuisine, the specific combination of roasted grapes with ricotta is a more recent innovation. It has gained popularity as a unique appetizer or light meal in both casual dining and gourmet restaurants.

Regional Variations

Flatbreads themselves are staples in various regional cuisines around the world, from Italy to the Middle East. The concept of roasting fruit, especially grapes, on a flatbread, however, is more commonly found in modern Western culinary traditions. In Mediterranean countries like Italy and Spain, flatbreads (such as focaccia) are often topped with seasonal ingredients. The use of grapes is typical in Italy, where roasted fruits are frequently paired with cheeses and herbs to create delicious, balanced dishes.

Distinguishing Features

Unlike traditional savory flatbreads, which typically feature tomatoes, olives, or cheeses like feta or mozzarella, the roasted grape flatbread stands out by incorporating the sweet and savory combination of grapes. This unique pairing brings a burst of sweetness and tartness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese. Additionally, the grapes are roasted, which caramelizes their natural sugars and enhances their flavor, adding depth to the overall dish. This makes it an ideal appetizer for those seeking a new flavor profile in their meals.

Where to Serve

Roasted grape flatbread is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of settings. It works well as a starter or appetizer at dinner parties, offering a light yet flavorful option to kick off a meal. It is also a great choice for picnics or casual gatherings, as it can be enjoyed both warm and at room temperature. Many gourmet restaurants feature similar combinations of fruit and cheese as part of their appetizer menu, making this dish an elegant yet accessible option for home cooks and professionals alike.

Interesting Facts

• The sweetness of roasted grapes pairs well with salty cheeses, which is why ricotta and mozzarella are often used in this recipe.
• The dish is highly customizable: it can be made vegetarian or vegan by substituting plant-based cheeses and skipping the meat toppings.
• Roasting grapes at a high temperature brings out their natural sugars, making them caramelized and slightly tart, which balances the richness of the cheese.
• While it may seem unusual to combine fruit with flatbread, this pairing reflects a long tradition in Mediterranean cuisine, where figs, dates, and other fruits are commonly used in savory dishes.

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