Lemon Garlic Baked Ricotta Recipe
This Lemon Garlic Baked Ricotta recipe offers a creamy, tangy, and aromatic appetizer or snack that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Featuring full-fat ricotta enhanced with fresh lemon zest, minced garlic, and olive oil, it is baked until lightly browned and served warm with toasted garlic-rubbed bread. Optional herb and antipasto garnishes add vibrant freshness and flavor complexity. Perfect as a spread, dip, or side dish for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 to 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 to 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups full-fat ricotta (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 finely chopped herbs
- Chopped tomatoes, red onion, and parsley
- Finely chopped antipasto such as olives and sun-dried tomatoes
- Toasted bread slices, rubbed lightly with garlic, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the ricotta.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: Place the ricotta in a mixing bowl. If using supermarket ricotta, it tends to be drier, so add 1 to 3 tablespoons of full-fat cream or milk to achieve a creamy, spreadable consistency similar to peanut butter.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the lemon zest, minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well combined, distributing the flavors evenly throughout the ricotta.
- Fill Baking Dishes: Transfer the ricotta mixture into 1-cup capacity ramekins or any ovenproof dishes you have. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top of each portion, reserving the remaining tablespoon for after baking.
- Bake: Bake the ricotta in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tops become lightly golden brown and set.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the baked ricotta from the oven and immediately drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Serve warm with toasted bread slices, ideally rubbed lightly with garlic for enhanced flavor.
- Optional Garnish: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley, or top with mixtures like chopped tomatoes and red onion, or chopped antipasto like olives and sun-dried tomatoes to add an extra burst of flavor and color.
Notes
- Using fresh Italian ricotta is preferable for creamier texture without needing additional cream or milk.
- If supermarket ricotta is used, adding cream or milk is essential to achieve the right spreadable consistency.
- Toasting bread and rubbing it with garlic enhances the serving experience but is optional.
- Feel free to customize garnishes according to your personal taste or seasonal ingredients.
- This dish is best served warm immediately after baking.
Keywords: baked ricotta, lemon garlic ricotta, Italian appetizer, creamy ricotta recipe, easy baked cheese dish, ricotta spread, oven baked ricotta
Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/lemon-garlic-baked-ricotta-recipe/
