The Perfect Cheese Pairings To Compliment Ricotta

Ricotta is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savoury dishes. From lasagna and ravioli to pancakes and cakes, ricotta adds a creamy texture and mild flavour that complements both sweet and savoury dishes. Its versatility means it can be used as a star ingredient or as a supporting player, enhancing the flavours of other ingredients.

Ricotta in pasta

Ricotta is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of pasta dishes. Here are some ideas and recipes for using ricotta in pasta:

Ricotta-based sauces

Ricotta can be used as a base for creamy pasta sauces. For a simple option, stir ricotta into your cooked pasta, along with marinara sauce, fresh basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. For a creamier sauce, fully incorporate the ricotta into the sauce before adding it to the pasta. You can also add ricotta to a brown butter sauce with sage, or experiment with other sauces.

Baked pasta dishes

Ricotta is commonly used as a filling or topping for baked pasta dishes such as lasagna, stuffed shells, manicotti, and cannelloni. You can mix ricotta with other cheeses like mozzarella and Romano, as well as eggs, parsley, and black pepper, to create a creamy and flavourful filling.

Gnocchi

Ricotta is a key ingredient in making gnocchi dough, resulting in soft and pillowy dumplings. You can serve gnocchi with a variety of sauces, such as lemon zest and black pepper, or spring peas and herbs.

Ravioli

Ricotta is a traditional filling for ravioli, often paired with ingredients like nutmeg, lemon zest, black pepper, and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. You can also use ricotta as a base and experiment with different sweet or savoury fillings.

Other pasta dishes

Ricotta can be used in a variety of other pasta dishes, such as spaghetti pie, pasta salads, or simply stirred into cooked spaghetti. You can also use ricotta in place of cream or béchamel sauce in pasta bakes. Get creative and experiment with different combinations of ingredients and flavours!

Ricotta in pizza

Ricotta is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including pizza. Here are some tips and ideas for using ricotta on pizza:

Choosing the Right Ricotta

When using ricotta on pizza, it is important to choose a creamy, whole milk variety. Avoid watery ricotta, as it can make your pizza soggy. If your ricotta is too watery, you can strain it using cheesecloth before spreading it on your pizza.

Enhancing the Flavour of Ricotta

While ricotta has a mild and slightly sweet flavour, it can be enhanced by adding other ingredients. For a simple yet delicious option, consider mixing the ricotta with olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading it on your pizza base. You can also add other cheeses, such as mozzarella, Romano, or Parmesan, to create a creamy and flavourful blend. Just be mindful of the salt content in these cheeses, so as not to overpower the other ingredients.

Ricotta as a Pizza Topping

Ricotta can be used as a base for your pizza, providing a creamy texture and mild flavour that complements other toppings. For a classic combination, pair ricotta with spinach, creating a savoury and nutritious pizza. You can also experiment with other toppings, such as artichokes, basil, or peppery herbs. For a touch of sweetness, drizzle honey over the ricotta and toppings of your choice.

Ricotta on White Pizza

If you prefer a white pizza, ricotta is an excellent choice. Mix it with pesto, mozzarella, garlic, and lemon zest, and top it with shaved or blanched vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. This creates a fresh and vibrant pizza with a creamy base.

Baked Ricotta on Pizza

For a unique twist, consider baking the ricotta before adding it to your pizza. Baked ricotta has a chewy texture and a more intense flavour, making it a tasty addition to your pizza. Simply spread the ricotta on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake until lightly browned. Then, spread it on your pizza base and add your desired toppings.

Ricotta-Stuffed Crust

For an indulgent treat, stuff the crust of your pizza with ricotta. This creates a cheesy surprise with every bite. Simply pipe or spread the ricotta along the edge of the crust before adding your sauce and other toppings. This technique works well with a variety of pizza styles, from traditional round pizzas to calzones or flatbreads.

In conclusion, ricotta is a versatile cheese that can elevate your pizza to the next level. Whether used as a base, topping, or stuffed crust, ricotta adds creaminess and a mild flavour that pairs well with a variety of ingredients. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favourite ricotta pizza!

Ricotta in salads

Ricotta is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of salads. Here are some ideas for incorporating ricotta into your salad creations:

Ricotta Salata Salad

Ricotta Salata, an aged and harder version of ricotta, adds a salty kick to salads. Keep it simple with arugula, olive oil, lemon, toasted pine nuts, and shaved Ricotta Salata. The salty flavour of the cheese pairs well with the bitterness of the arugula and the acidity of the lemon.

Ricotta and Cherry Tomato Salad

Create a base of ricotta whipped with olive oil and salt, then add cherry tomatoes, baby arugula, and snap peas. Toss the salad with a dressing made from balsamic vinegar, pine nuts, basil, and olive oil. This combination offers a balance of sweet, salty, and bitter flavours, with a variety of textures.

Watermelon, Avocado, and Ricotta Salad

For a refreshing summer salad, combine chopped watermelon, ricotta, cubed avocado, and sunflower seeds. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and top with fresh basil. The creamy ricotta and avocado contrast beautifully with the crunchy freshness of the watermelon.

Roasted Apple and Pistachio Spinach Salad

This unique salad brings together roasted apples, pistachios, spinach, and ricotta. The sweetness of the apples and the creaminess of the ricotta create an unexpected but delightful combination.

Arugula, Mushroom, and Ricotta Breakfast Pizza

While this may not be a traditional salad, it incorporates fresh arugula and mushrooms on a pizza with a ricotta base. The tanginess of the cheese pairs well with the earthy flavours of the arugula and mushrooms, making it a tasty breakfast or brunch option.

Ricotta, with its mild flavour and creamy texture, is a versatile ingredient that can enhance a variety of salads. Experiment with different combinations of ingredients and dressings to create your own ricotta-inspired salad masterpieces!

Ricotta in desserts

Ricotta is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both savoury and sweet dishes. Its mild flavour and creamy texture make it a great addition to desserts, adding a touch of richness without being too heavy. Here are some delicious ways to use ricotta in desserts:

Ricotta Cheesecake

A classic way to use ricotta in desserts is to make a cheesecake. The cheese adds a lovely creamy texture and a subtle tanginess that pairs well with other flavours. You can make a traditional New York-style cheesecake or get creative with additions like almond praline, caramel-orange sauce, or amaretto.

Cannoli and Cannoli-Inspired Treats

Cannoli, a traditional Italian treat, features a crispy, fried shell filled with sweetened ricotta. You can make your own cannoli or enjoy cannoli-inspired creations like cannoli chips and dip, or Holy Cannoli Ice Cream, which blends ricotta with mascarpone, waffle cone pieces, mini chocolate chips, and pistachios.

Ricotta Cookies

Ricotta cookies are a staple in Italian households, often making an appearance during holidays and celebrations. These sweet, soft, cake-like cookies are glazed with a sweet topping for an extra indulgent touch.

Ricotta Parfait

For a keto-friendly dessert, blend ricotta with heavy cream, lemon zest, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Layer this creamy mixture with your choice of berries, nuts, or chocolate for a versatile and delicious parfait.

Ricotta with Fruit

Ricotta pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted fruit. Try it with grilled peaches drizzled with lavender honey, or roasted pears. You can also enjoy ricotta with fresh fruit like strawberries, bananas, or blueberries.

Ricotta Crepes

Ricotta is an excellent filling for crepes, which can be topped with fresh fruit, compote, or jam. For a truly indulgent treat, try buckwheat crepes with honeyed ricotta and sautéed plums.

Ricotta Pudding

Making a simple ricotta pudding is easy—just blend ricotta, eggs, cinnamon, salt, and sugar in a blender, then bake. Top it with pine nuts and roasted grapes for a sophisticated dessert.

Ricotta Frosting

For a unique twist on traditional frosting, make a ricotta cream frosting to top your favourite cakes or cupcakes. Blend ricotta with honey or raw cane sugar, rum or Amaretto, and dark or bittersweet chocolate for a decadent treat.

Ricotta in breakfast dishes

Ricotta is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of breakfast dishes. Here are some ideas for incorporating ricotta into your morning meal:

Savoury Breakfast Ideas:

• Scrambled Eggs with Ricotta: Adding a dollop of ricotta to your scrambled eggs takes this simple breakfast to the next level. Serve it with buttered toast and chopped chives for a delicious and indulgent morning meal.
• Ricotta on Toast: Spreading ricotta on toast is a quick and easy breakfast option. Top it with almost anything you like, such as corn and scallions, pesto and tomatoes, or a fried egg.
• Ricotta with Spinach: Combine ricotta with cooked frozen spinach, Parmesan, and a small amount of mayonnaise to make a tasty breakfast dip. Serve it with tortilla or potato chips for a savoury start to your day.
• Ricotta with Salty Prosciutto: Try pairing ricotta with salty prosciutto and sweet, brûléed figs on a bed of arugula for a sophisticated breakfast salad.
• Ricotta-Filled Ravioli: Making homemade ravioli filled with fresh ricotta, egg, nutmeg, lemon zest, black pepper, and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano is a wonderful weekend project that will result in a delicious breakfast treat.

Sweet Breakfast Ideas:

• Ricotta with Fruit: Top a bowl of ricotta with fruit, nuts, or granola. Grilled peaches with lavender honey whipped ricotta or a bowl of ricotta with roasted pears are both delicious options. You can also add ricotta to your favourite smoothie for a creamy base.
• Ricotta Pancakes: Adding ricotta to pancake batter results in extra-fluffy stacks. Try making lemon ricotta pancakes or sheet-pan cider-ricotta pancakes with pear compote for a unique twist on this breakfast classic.
• Ricotta with Chocolate: Ricotta is a key ingredient in cannoli, a traditional Italian treat with a crispy, fried shell that is typically filled with sweetened ricotta. For an extra flourish, add chocolate chips and pistachios to your filling.
• Ricotta Dessert Parfait: Create a keto-friendly dessert by blending ricotta with heavy cream, lemon zest, powdered sugar, and vanilla, then layering it with berries or other mix-ins of your choice.
• Ricotta Cookies: Ricotta cookies are a staple in Italian households, often made for holidays and celebrations. These sweet, soft, cake-like cookies are drizzled with glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.

Frequently asked questions