A Flavorful Beginning
Herb-Infused Ricotta Delight one of my favorite main course and I remember the first time I made my Herb-Infused Ricotta Delight. It was a sunny afternoon, and I wanted to create something fresh and tasty for my friends. I had some creamy ricotta cheese in the fridge, and I thought, why not add some herbs? I gathered fresh basil, parsley, and a touch of thyme from my little garden. The smell of the herbs filled my kitchen, and I felt excited about what I was about to create.
Mixing the Ingredients
As I mixed the ricotta with the herbs, I could already imagine how delicious it would taste. I added a sprinkle of salt and a dash of pepper for some extra flavor. The ricotta became a lovely, green-tinted cream. I spread it on crispy toast and topped it with sliced tomatoes. It looked so colorful and inviting! I couldn’t wait to share it with my friends.
A Memorable Gathering
When my friends arrived, they were curious about the dish. I proudly served them the Herb-Infused Ricotta Delight on a beautiful platter. As they took their first bites, their eyes lit up with joy. They loved the creamy texture and the fresh taste of the herbs. We laughed, chatted, and enjoyed every bite together. It turned into a perfect afternoon filled with good food and great company.
A Recipe to Share
After that day, I knew I had to share this recipe. It became a favorite at gatherings and family dinners. Every time I make it, I think of that sunny afternoon and the joy of creating something special. My Herb-Infused Ricotta Delight is not just a dish; it’s a way to bring people together and celebrate the simple joys of life. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Herb-Infused Ricotta Delight
- When whipping the ricotta, start at a low speed to avoid splattering. Gradually increase the speed for a fluffier texture.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but reduce the quantity, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Make sure to use a microplane for zesting the lemon. This will give you the finest zest and prevent any bitterness from the pith.
- For a unique flavor, try using flavored honey, such as lavender or orange blossom, to enhance the sweetness and aroma.
- This spread can be made a few hours in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Add the herbs just before serving to keep them fresh.
- For a heartier option, serve the ricotta spread with sliced vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful platter.
- If you enjoy roasted garlic, blend a couple of cloves into the ricotta for a deeper, richer flavor profile.
Herb-Infused Ricotta Delight
4
servings10
minutes5
minutes130
kcal15
minutesGet ready to elevate your appetizer game with this Herb-Infused Ricotta Delight! In just 10 minutes, transform creamy ricotta into a luscious spread, enhanced with a drizzle of honey, a hint of lemon, and a medley of fresh herbs. This versatile dish can be served as a dip, spread, or atop crostini for an elegant starter. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and vibrant flavors. Channel your inner celebrity chef and whip up this delightful treat today!
Ingredients
1 cup creamy ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon golden honey
1 pinch fine sea salt
freshly cracked black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
1 teaspoon finely minced parsley
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon peel
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 small baguette sliced thinly
Directions
- Whipping Ricotta – In a medium mixing bowl, place the ricotta cheese and use a hand mixer to whip it for about 2 minutes until it becomes smooth and airy. It’s okay if there are small lumps remaining; they add texture.
- Creating Herb Mixture – In another bowl, combine the chopped mint, parsley, lemon zest, olive oil, and honey. Stir well to blend the flavors together. This should take about 3 minutes.
- Assembling the Dish – Spread the whipped ricotta onto a serving plate or bowl. Pour the herb mixture over the top and season with freshly ground black pepper as desired.
- Preparing Baguette – For crostini, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly drizzle with olive oil. Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Serving Suggestions – Serve the whipped ricotta with the toasted baguette slices or alongside fresh vegetables for dipping.
Equipment
- hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
Notes
- For an added twist, try incorporating roasted garlic into the ricotta mixture for extra depth of flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon slices. Feel free to experiment by adding other herbs like basil or chives for variation!
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 130kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Potassium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Vitamin A: 100IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 1mg
FAQ-Herb-Infused Ricotta Delight
Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat ricotta cheese. Just keep in mind that the texture and creaminess might be slightly different.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again.
What other herbs can I use?
You can experiment with other herbs such as basil, chives, or dill. Each will impart a unique flavor to the spread.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of ricotta can change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling wine complements the flavors of the herb-infused ricotta beautifully.
