Whipped Ricotta Dip
- This cloud-like whipped ricotta dip combines the delicate sweetness of honey with bright lemon and aromatic basil.
- Perfectly balanced and impossibly creamy, this versatile appetizer elevates everything from crostini to fresh vegetables.
- Ready in just minutes but impressive enough for any gathering.
- Prep Time: 15
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad & Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons high-quality honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh basil
- Pinch of kosher salt
- Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts (optional)
- Flaky sea salt for finishing (optional)
- Crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables for serving
Instructions
- Place ricotta in a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth over a bowl and let drain for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Transfer the drained ricotta to a food processor and process for 1-2 minutes until completely smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
- Add honey, lemon juice, and chopped basil to the processor. Pulse 5-6 times until just combined.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Pulse briefly to incorporate.
- Optional: For an even lighter texture, transfer to a mixing bowl and beat with an electric mixer for 1-2 additional minutes.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, creating a slight well in the center with the back of a spoon.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 24 hours) to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, drizzle with olive oil and add optional garnishes like lemon zest, pine nuts, or flaky sea salt.
- Serve with crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality, whole milk ricotta cheese.
- Allow dip to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
- The dip can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 125
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 82
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 7
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 22
Keywords: whipped ricotta dip, ricotta cheese spread, herb ricotta dip, creamy cheese dip, Italian dip recipe
Find it online: https://www.joyliciousrecipes.com/whipped-ricotta-dip-easy/