Ricotta Jam Jar (Nordstrom Café Copycat) 

This Ricotta Jam Jar appetizer is inspired by the beloved starter from Nordstrom Café. It’s a beautifully layered dish that combines creamy whipped ricotta, vibrant pesto, and sweet-tangy tomato jam all stacked in a glass jar. Served with toasted baguette slices, this elegant yet simple dish makes for a stunning party starter, a brunch centerpiece, or a unique snack. The contrasting textures and flavors—creamy, herbaceous, sweet, and savory—work harmoniously for a bite that’s truly gourmet. It’s easy to prepare ahead and assemble just before serving, making entertaining a breeze.

Ingredients

For the ricotta jar (per jar):

• ⅓ to ½ cup ricotta cheese
  
  

• 3–4 tbsp pesto (store-bought or homemade, see below)
  
  

• ¼ cup tomato jam (see below)
  
  

• Fresh herbs (basil or oregano), for garnish
  
  

For toasted baguette slices:

• 1 baguette, sliced
  
  

• 3 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• Pinch of sea salt
  
  

• Sprinkle of garlic powder
  
  

For the tomato jam:

• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes
  
  

• 2 garlic cloves, minced
  
  

• 2 tbsp sugar
  
  

• 2 tbsp lime juice
  
  

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  
  

• ¼ tsp salt
  
  

• ¼ tsp pepper
  
  

For the pesto (optional homemade):

• 4 cups fresh basil leaves
  
  

• ½ cup grated Asiago cheese
  
  

• ¼ cup toasted pine nuts
  
  

• 3 garlic cloves
  
  

• ½ to ¾ cup olive oil
  
  

• ¼ tsp salt
  
  

• ¼ tsp black pepper
  
  

• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  
  

Directions

1. Make the tomato jam:
   In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherry tomatoes, garlic, sugar, lime juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring often, until the tomatoes burst and the mixture thickens. Leave it chunky or blend for a smoother consistency. Let cool completely.
   
   

2. Prepare the pesto (if homemade):
   In a food processor, pulse basil, Asiago cheese, pine nuts, and garlic until combined. Slowly stream in olive oil while blending until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
   
   

3. Toast the baguette slices:
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and garlic powder. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden and crisp.
   
   

4. Assemble the jar:
   Whip the ricotta in a food processor or blender until smooth (optional). Spoon ricotta into the bottom of the jar. Add a layer of pesto, followed by the cooled tomato jam. Garnish with fresh herbs.
   
   

5. Serve:
   Pair the jar with toasted baguette slices for dipping. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
   
   

Nutrients (Per serving estimate)

• Calories: 290
  
  

• Protein: 10g
  
  

• Fat: 20g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 18g
  
  

• Fiber: 1g
  
  

• Sugar: 4g
  
  

• Sodium: 360mg