Lemon Garlic Baked Ricotta Recipe
A creamy and flavorful Lemon Garlic Baked Ricotta recipe featuring full-fat ricotta cheese mixed with fresh lemon zest, garlic, and olive oil, baked until lightly browned and perfect for serving with toasted garlic bread and fresh herbs or antipasto toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups full fat ricotta cheese (preferably fresh Italian ricotta)
- 1 to 3 tbsp full fat cream or milk (optional, only if using supermarket ricotta)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh thyme, parsley, or other fresh herbs, finely chopped
- Chopped tomatoes, red onion, and parsley
- Finely chopped antipasto (e.g. olives, sun-dried tomatoes)
- Toasted bread, lightly rubbed with garlic, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure it is ready for baking the ricotta dish.
- Prepare the ricotta mixture: Place the ricotta cheese in a bowl. If it is supermarket ricotta and feels dry, add 1 to 3 tablespoons of cream or milk to loosen it to a creamy, spreadable consistency similar to peanut butter.
- Add flavorings: Mix in the lemon zest, minced garlic, and salt thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Portion into baking dishes: Spoon the ricotta mixture into 1-cup capacity ramekins or any small ovenproof dishes. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top of the ricotta in each dish.
- Bake the ricotta: Place the dishes in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tops of the ricotta are lightly browned and the mixture is warmed through.
- Finish and serve: Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil on top. Serve warm with toasted bread rubbed with garlic for an extra burst of flavor.
- Add garnishes (optional): Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, chopped tomatoes and onion, or a mixture of antipasto such as olives and sun-dried tomatoes over the baked ricotta for additional flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Using fresh Italian ricotta is preferred for better creaminess, but supermarket ricotta can be improved by adding cream or milk.
- Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference for pungency.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Toasted bread with garlic is highly recommended as a perfect accompaniment.
- Herb and antipasto garnishes add variety and can be customized to taste.
Keywords: baked ricotta, lemon garlic ricotta, Italian appetizer, creamy ricotta dip, baked cheese appetizer
Find it online: https://kitchenbynora.com/lemon-garlic-baked-ricotta-recipe/
