Ricotta's Perfect Pair: Cheeses That Complement Its Creamy Texture

Ricotta is a fresh, creamy cheese with a subtle flavour that can be used in a variety of dishes, both savoury and sweet. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in everything from appetizers to mains to desserts. Here are some ideas for dishes that use ricotta:

- Lasagna

- Ravioli

- Manicotti

- Pizza

- Cheesecake

- Pancakes

- Pasta

- Cake

- Dip

- Toast

Ricotta in pasta

Ricotta is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of pasta dishes. Here are some ideas for how to incorporate ricotta into your pasta creations:

Lasagna

A classic way to use ricotta in pasta is as a layer in lasagna. The cheese adds a creamy texture and mild flavour to the dish, complementing the other ingredients. You can also add spinach to the ricotta layer for an extra boost of flavour and nutrition.

Stuffed Pasta Shells

Another option for ricotta in pasta is to use it as a filling for stuffed pasta shells. The ricotta can be combined with other cheeses, such as mozzarella and Parmesan, and mixed with herbs and spices to create a savoury and creamy filling.

Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a casserole dish that combines pasta, ricotta, and other cheeses. It's a hearty and comforting meal that can be made ahead of time and baked when needed. You can also add vegetables, such as summer squash, to add more flavour and texture.

Manicotti

Similar to stuffed pasta shells, manicotti involves filling tubular pasta with a ricotta mixture. This dish is often served as a comforting and indulgent meal, perfect for a family dinner or potluck.

Pasta Bakes

Ricotta can be used in various pasta bakes, such as the "Million Dollar Spaghetti" or a simple three-cheese pasta bake. Combining ricotta with other cheeses, such as mozzarella and Parmesan, creates a creamy and indulgent dish that's perfect for a crowd.

Spaghetti

A quick and easy way to use ricotta in pasta is to simply stir it into a bowl of spaghetti. The ricotta adds creaminess and richness to the dish, and you can top it with fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Gnocchi

For a unique take on gnocchi, you can make ricotta gnocchi with spinach and Gorgonzola. The ricotta adds a creamy texture to the gnocchi dough, and the spinach and Gorgonzola contribute to a flavourful and colourful dish.

Ravioli

Making homemade ravioli filled with ricotta is a meditative and rewarding experience. You can season the ricotta with nutmeg, lemon zest, black pepper, and grated Parmesan for a delicious and elegant dish.

Fettuccine

Fettuccine with shredded zucchini and fresh ricotta is a bright and simple dish. By sautéing garlic and zucchini shreds with lemon zest and then stirring in the pasta, ricotta, pasta water, mint, and parsley, you'll create a fresh and flavourful meal.

Cannelloni

Ricotta can be used as a filling for cannelloni, a type of stuffed pasta. You can fill the cannelloni with ricotta and spinach, or try a unique combination like sausage and ricotta.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but the versatility of ricotta means that you can experiment and create your own signature ricotta pasta dishes!

Ricotta in pancakes

Ricotta pancakes are a delicious alternative to traditional buttermilk pancakes. They are light, fluffy, and creamy, with a custard-like texture. The ricotta adds a magical milky richness without an overwhelming cheesy taste.

The Recipe

To make ricotta pancakes, you will need the following ingredients:

• Ricotta cheese
• Flour
• Milk
• Egg yolks
• Egg whites
• Baking powder
• Sugar
• Salt
• Butter
• Maple syrup or fruit jam

First, preheat a griddle or non-stick skillet to medium-high heat. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. In a separate, larger bowl, combine the ricotta, milk, and egg yolks. Next, add the dry ingredients to the ricotta mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff and then fold them into the pancake batter. Melt a small amount of butter on the griddle or skillet, and use a 1/3 cup measure to pour the batter onto the cooking surface. Cook the pancakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Serve immediately with maple syrup, fruit jam, or lemon curd.

Variations

You can also experiment with different variations of ricotta pancakes. For a tangy flavour, add lemon zest to the batter. For a sweeter option, try adding fresh blueberries or strawberries to the batter or serving them as a topping. For a more indulgent treat, add vanilla and sugar to the batter, along with a handful of chocolate chips.

Tips

If your ricotta seems watery, drain off the excess liquid by placing it in a fine-mesh strainer for about 30 minutes before cooking. Additionally, if you want to make your own buttermilk, simply add a tablespoon of white vinegar or fresh lemon juice to a cup of milk and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to curdle.

Ricotta in cakes

Ricotta is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of sweet and savoury dishes, including cakes. Here are some tips and ideas for incorporating ricotta into cakes:

Flavour and Texture

Ricotta has a subtle, slightly sweet flavour and a creamy texture, making it an excellent addition to cakes. It can add moisture, richness, and a delicate tang to your baked goods. Its mild taste also makes it a versatile ingredient that can be paired with various flavours.

Types of Cakes

Ricotta can be used in different types of cakes, including pound cakes, sponge cakes, and cheesecake. Here are some specific examples:

• Ricotta Pound Cake: You can make a delicious ricotta pound cake by combining the cheese with flour, butter, eggs, and flavourings like orange zest or vanilla. This creates a moist and tender cake.
• Ricotta Cheesecake: Ricotta is an excellent choice for cheesecakes as it results in a creamy, luscious texture. You can make a traditional ricotta cheesecake or experiment with additional flavours like amaretto or caramel-orange sauce.
• Lemon-Ricotta Cake: The combination of ricotta and lemon creates a bright and tangy dessert. You can make a layered lemon-ricotta cake with multiple layers of sponge and cream for an impressive presentation.
• Chocolate Ricotta Cake: Adding ricotta to a chocolate cake can create a rich and indulgent treat. You can also make a cannoli cake, which features a chocolate-studded cannoli filling between layers of vanilla sponge.
• Fruit-based Ricotta Cakes: Ricotta pairs well with various fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, and oranges. You can create a fruit-based ricotta cake by incorporating fresh or grilled fruit into the batter or using fruit as a topping or filling.

Tips for Using Ricotta in Cakes

When using ricotta in cakes, consider the following tips:

• Drain Excess Liquid: Before adding ricotta to your cake batter, ensure that it is well-drained to prevent the cake from becoming too wet. You can do this by letting the ricotta sit in a fine-mesh strainer for a few minutes to release any excess liquid.
• Adjust the Amount of Liquid Ingredients: When adding ricotta to a cake recipe, you may need to reduce the amount of liquid ingredients (such as milk or buttermilk) to compensate for the moisture added by the cheese.
• Experiment with Sweet and Savoury Combinations: Ricotta works well with both sweet and savoury ingredients. You can pair it with ingredients like honey, chocolate, citrus fruits, or herbs to create unique flavour profiles in your cakes.

Ricotta in appetizers

Ricotta is a fresh, creamy cheese that is perfect for appetizers, whether served hot or cold. It can be used as a base for dips, spread on toast, or baked into savoury dishes.

Ricotta Dips

Ricotta can be mixed with other cheeses, fruits, nuts, and sweeteners to make a creamy dip. A simple dip can be made by combining ricotta with cream cheese, honey, and apricots, and then topping with pistachios. This dip is best served with thin, buttery crackers or toasted baguette slices. For a savoury dip, mix ricotta with cooked spinach, parmesan, and a small amount of mayonnaise. This dip can be served with tortilla or potato chips.

Ricotta on Toast

Ricotta can be spread on toast and topped with a variety of sweet or savoury ingredients. For a sweet option, try ricotta with honey, fruit, and nuts. For a savoury option, top ricotta toast with herbs, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Ricotta can also be served on toast with scrambled eggs and chives.

Baked Ricotta Appetizers

Baked ricotta is a simple and versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer. To make a basic baked ricotta, mix together ricotta, parmesan, eggs, garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. This mixture can be baked in a buttered dish or divided into smaller ramekins. Baked ricotta has a light, airy texture and can be served with bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks.

Other Ricotta Appetizer Ideas

• Ricotta can be drizzled with olive oil, cracked pepper, and served with crackers
• Whipped ricotta can be served with pita chips
• Ricotta can be spread on crostini and topped with smoked salmon and dill
• Ricotta can be mixed with pesto and served on crostini
• Ricotta can be mixed with cream cheese, powdered sugar, and chocolate chips to make a cannoli dip

Ricotta in desserts

Ricotta is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of sweet dishes and desserts. Its mild, slightly sweet flavour and creamy texture make it an ideal ingredient for cakes, pancakes, and other treats. Here are some specific examples and recipes:

Ricotta in Cakes

Ricotta can be used to make cakes that are moist, tender, and not too sweet. One recipe suggests a raspberry ricotta cake, while another features ricotta with orange and chocolate. For a more elaborate dessert, a cannoli cake features a luscious, chocolate-studded cannoli filling between vanilla cake layers. Ricotta can also be used to make a simple yet impressive lemon ricotta cake, or a more complex orange chocolate ricotta pie.

Ricotta in Pancakes

Ricotta pancakes are a popular choice and can be made in a variety of ways. Lemon ricotta pancakes are moist and nutty, and can be served with macerated berries instead of maple syrup. For a fun twist, you can add blueberries to your ricotta pancakes, or try orange or lime ricotta pancakes for a different flavour. Sheet-pan cider ricotta pancakes with pear compote are a great option for serving a large crowd, and ricotta gnocchi with spinach and gorgonzola takes the pancake in a savoury direction.

Other Ricotta Desserts

In addition to cakes and pancakes, ricotta can be used in a variety of other sweet dishes. It can be paired with grilled fruit, crunchy granola, and honey for a simple yet elegant dessert. For a more indulgent option, try a chocolate mousse made with ricotta, cocoa powder, and sugar. Ricotta can also be used to make a sweet ricotta pudding with roasted grapes, or a berry and ricotta slice. For a unique treat, try cornmeal towers with strawberries and cream, or hazelnut pear cake.

Frequently asked questions