Are you looking for an incredibly easy yet impressive recipe to elevate your next meal? Look no further! This ricotta cheese recipe, inspired by the queen of effortless entertaining herself, Ina Garten, is the perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's unbelievably creamy, subtly sweet, and requires minimal effort – making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned pros. Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to create a delicious dish using homemade cooking techniques. This recipe is a true testament to the magic of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) container whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, honey, vanilla extract, salt, and lemon zest (if using). Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together carefully, ensuring not to overmix and break up the ricotta too much. The goal is a smooth, yet slightly textured consistency.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness and salt to your preference. Some honey or maple syrup might be needed for those who prefer a sweeter ricotta.
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Chill (Optional): For the best flavor and consistency, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Chilling also firms up the ricotta slightly, making it easier to serve and spread.
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Serve and Enjoy: This incredible ricotta is ready to be enjoyed! It's delightful on its own, with crusty bread or biscuits, as a topping for pancakes or waffles, swirled into pasta dishes, or used as a filling for pastries. The possibilities are truly endless!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Ricotta:
- High-Quality Ricotta: Using high-quality whole milk ricotta is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture. The creaminess of the ricotta will be greatly enhanced with good quality ingredients.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold the ingredients together; overmixing can make the ricotta watery.
- Lemon Zest is Key: The bright citrus notes from the lemon zest perfectly complement the creamy ricotta, adding a touch of unexpected freshness. Don't skip it!
Variations:
- Spiced Ricotta: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm, comforting flavor profile.
- Herbal Ricotta: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for an aromatic twist.
- Sweet Ricotta: Increase the honey to your liking or add a drizzle of orange blossom water for a more intense sweetness.
- Savory Ricotta: Omit the honey and add a pinch of red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a savory variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 1/4 cup serving and may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 5-8g
This easy ricotta cheese recipe makes a wonderful addition to your collection of best recipes and provides numerous opportunities for culinary creativity. It's a simple yet effective way to add a touch of elegance and flavor to any meal. Whether you're looking for easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas, this versatile recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!