Smoked salmon bruschetta with arugula and lemon-chive ricotta

This is a lighter, Italian version of the classic smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel. Instead of bagels it uses toasted slices of Italian ciabatta bread (or you could substitute sourdough), and instead of cream cheese it uses ricotta cheese (which has almost half the calories of cream cheese).

The ricotta is turned into a creamy spread by adding chopped chives, lemon and freshly ground black pepper. And it combines beautifully with peppery arugula (rocket) and slices of delicate smoked salmon — which also happens to be rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fats.

This is one of those handy meals that’s quick and easy to make, and leaves you feeling satisfied and well-fed but not overfed. We’ve served this dish for breakfast, lunch and as a light dinner, but it also makes a lovely starter. Or, by cutting the bruschetta into smaller pieces, you can also serve it as finger food.