Whipped Ricotta Spread (Printable version)
Light and airy ricotta blended with olive oil creates a luxurious spread perfect for appetizers or snacks.
# What you need:
→ Dairy
01 - 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
→ Oils & Seasonings
02 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
03 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Optional Toppings
05 - Zest of 1 lemon
06 - 1 tablespoon honey
07 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (basil, chives, or parsley)
08 - Crushed red pepper flakes
# How To:
01 - Place the ricotta cheese in a medium mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the ricotta on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until very smooth, light, and fluffy.
02 - Add olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until incorporated.
03 - Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
04 - Transfer whipped ricotta to a serving bowl. Top with lemon zest, honey, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil, if using.
05 - Serve immediately with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Ten minutes from bowl to table and most of that is you standing there watching magic happen with a whisk.
- It converts even the ricotta skeptics into full believers after one bite on warm crusty bread.
02 -
- Low fat ricotta will leave you with a grainy, watery mess that no amount of whipping can rescue.
- Letting the ricotta drain in a fine mesh sieve for fifteen minutes before whipping changes the entire texture.
03 -
- If using a whisk instead of a hand mixer, use a folding motion at first to avoid splattering ricotta across your counter.
- Finely grated Parmesan folded in at the end creates an umami depth that will have everyone asking for your secret.