Indulge your taste buds with a delightful Italian treat that promises to elevate any gathering—Whipped Ricotta with Honey and Lemon! In just 10 minutes, you can create a creamy, dreamy dish that perfectly balances the rich texture of ricotta with the sweet, zesty notes of honey and lemon. Whether you're looking for a light dessert, a sophisticated appetizer, or a luxurious spread for your next brunch, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. Ready to impress your guests and tantalize your palate? Let’s dive into this easy yet elegant recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt to taste
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Remove the ricotta cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly, which will help achieve a smoother texture when whipping.
- Place the ricotta cheese in a medium mixing bowl. Using an electric hand mixer or a whisk, beat the ricotta for 2-3 minutes until it becomes light, creamy, and fluffy. If using a hand mixer, start on low speed and gradually increase to medium.
- Add the lemon juice and lemon zest to the whipped ricotta. Continue mixing for another 30 seconds to evenly incorporate the citrus elements.
- Drizzle the honey into the ricotta mixture, gently folding it in with a spatula to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain some visual texture.
- Taste the whipped ricotta and add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Adjust honey or lemon juice if needed to balance the sweetness and acidity.
- Transfer the whipped ricotta to a serving bowl or individual small dishes.
- Garnish the top with fresh mint leaves, which will add a bright, aromatic touch to the creamy ricotta.
- Serve immediately at room temperature as a light dessert, appetizer, or spread. Can be accompanied by toasted bread, crackers, or fresh fruit.
Tips
- Soften the Ricotta: Allow the ricotta cheese to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before whipping. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy texture.
- Whipping Technique: Use an electric hand mixer for the best results, starting on a low speed to avoid splattering. Gradually increase the speed to medium for 2-3 minutes until the ricotta is light and fluffy.
- Citrus Balance: When adding lemon juice and zest, taste as you go. Adjust the amount of honey or lemon juice to find the perfect balance between sweetness and acidity.
- Marbled Effect: When incorporating honey into the ricotta, gently fold it in with a spatula instead of mixing thoroughly. This will create a beautiful marbled appearance that is visually appealing.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your whipped ricotta with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh fruit for a delightful contrast in textures. It also pairs wonderfully with a drizzle of extra honey on top!
- Garnish for Flair: Don’t skip the fresh mint leaves! They not only enhance the presentation but also add a refreshing aroma that complements the dish beautifully.
- Serving Temperature: This dish is best served at room temperature, so plan accordingly to ensure it’s perfectly creamy when it reaches your guests.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
