Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish takes simple ricotta cheese and transforms it into something elegant and restaurant-worthy in just minutes. It’s smooth, airy, and endlessly customizable—perfect on toasted bread, with fresh fruit, or as part of a charcuterie board. Both savory and sweet variations make it adaptable for any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Whole milk ricotta cheese

  • Olive oil

  • Salt

  • Black pepper

  • Lemon zest or juice (optional)

  • Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley (optional, for savory version)

  • Honey (optional, for sweet version)

Directions

  1. Place ricotta in a food processor or mixing bowl.

  2. Blend or whip with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

  3. Drizzle in olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

  4. For savory, add lemon zest and fresh herbs. For sweet, add honey.

  5. Serve immediately with bread, crackers, fruit, or vegetables.

Servings and timing

Serves 6 people.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

  • Savory Garlic Herb: Add roasted garlic and chopped herbs.

  • Sweet Honey Almond: Stir in honey and top with toasted almonds.

  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey.

  • Citrus Twist: Mix in orange or lemon zest for brightness.

  • Pesto Swirl: Top with a spoonful of pesto for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Whip again before serving if it loses some fluffiness.
Do not freeze, as ricotta’s texture does not hold up well after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use part-skim ricotta?

Yes, but whole milk ricotta gives the creamiest results.

Do I need a food processor?

No, a hand mixer or whisk works too, but a food processor makes it fluffier.

Can I serve this warm?

Yes, it can be gently warmed in the microwave, but it’s usually served chilled or at room temperature.

What can I serve whipped ricotta with?

It’s delicious with crusty bread, crackers, fruit, roasted vegetables, or as a pizza topping.

Is whipped ricotta healthy?

Yes, it’s a protein-rich option and can be a lighter alternative to cream cheese-based dips.

Can I use ricotta straight from the container?

Yes, but whipping improves its texture and presentation.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a few hours before serving and store in the fridge.

What’s the best olive oil to use?

Extra virgin olive oil adds the richest flavor.

Can I sweeten it with something other than honey?

Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar also work well.

Does whipped ricotta separate?

Not if stored properly, but give it a quick stir if it looks slightly watery.

Conclusion

Whipped Ricotta is a simple yet elegant recipe that turns humble ricotta into a creamy, versatile spread. Whether you prepare it savory with herbs or sweet with honey, it’s perfect for entertaining or adding a gourmet touch to everyday meals


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Whipped Ricotta

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Whipped Ricotta is a light, creamy spread made by blending ricotta cheese until smooth and fluffy. Enhanced with olive oil, herbs, or honey, it’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, snack, or dessert topping.

  • Author: Catherine
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Whipping
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest or 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley (optional, for savory version)
  • 12 tablespoons honey (optional, for sweet version)

Instructions

  1. Place ricotta cheese in a food processor or mixing bowl.
  2. Blend or whip with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Drizzle in olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
  4. For a savory version, add lemon zest and fresh herbs. For a sweet version, mix in honey.
  5. Serve immediately with bread, crackers, fruit, or vegetables.

Notes

  • Whole milk ricotta gives the best creamy texture, but part-skim can be used.For extra flavor, swirl in pesto, roasted garlic, or hot honey.Best served fresh, but can be made a few hours ahead of time and refrigerated.Do not freeze as ricotta’s texture changes when thawed.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup
  • Calories: 140
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

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