Name: Whipped Ricotta with Lemon, Honey, and Fresh Thyme Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 8 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces whole milk ricotta; 1 tablespoon heavy cream; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (additional for topping); 1 tablespoon honey or hot honey (additional for topping); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (additional for topping); 1 large pinch salt; 1-2 cracks of fresh black pepper; Red pepper flakes (optional, for topping)

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Introduction

Whipped ricotta is a simple yet elegant spread that transforms creamy ricotta into a light and fluffy delight. Perfect for entertaining or enjoying a quick snack, it pairs wonderfully with crostini or toasted pita bread.

The image shows a wooden bowl filled with creamy white yogurt that has a smooth texture. On top of the yogurt, there are bright yellow lemon slices and a drizzle of honey, creating a glossy look. Small green herb leaves are scattered over the yogurt, adding hints of green. The bowl sits on a white plate that holds several golden-brown toasted bread slices with a crispy texture and holes. Next to the plate is a honey dipper with some honey on it and a half lemon with a vibrant yellow color. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface with a gray and white striped cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces whole milk ricotta
1 tablespoon heavy cream

1 tablespoon lemon zest (plus additional for topping)
1 tablespoon honey or hot honey (plus additional for topping)

1 teaspoon fresh thyme (plus additional for topping)
1 large pinch salt

1-2 cracks of fresh pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Add the ricotta, heavy cream, lemon zest, honey, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper to a medium-sized bowl.

Step 2: Use a hand mixer fitted with the beaters to beat the ingredients on medium-high speed for 2 to 3 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Transfer the whipped ricotta to a serving dish. Drizzle with honey, sprinkle with lemon zest, fresh thyme, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 4: Serve immediately with crostini or toasted pita bread.

Tips & Variations

For a richer texture, add a little more heavy cream to achieve your desired consistency.
Swap fresh thyme with rosemary or basil for a different herbal flavor.
Try mixing in a clove of minced garlic or a pinch of smoked paprika for a savory twist.

Use hot honey for a spicy-sweet kick that complements the creamy ricotta.

Storage

Store whipped ricotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a quick stir to restore its creamy texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if it thickens upon chilling, allow it to come to room temperature briefly or add a splash of cream while stirring.

How to Serve

A small wooden bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a creamy white spread topped with a drizzle of golden honey and a small lemon wedge resting on the surface, along with tiny green herb flecks. A toasted, golden-brown thin bread slice is being dipped into the spread by a woman's hand. More toasted bread slices, with a crispy texture and some holes, are on a white plate behind the bowl. Nearby, a wooden honey dipper lies on the surface with a cut lemon half in the top right corner. The colors are warm and natural, highlighting the creamy texture and the crispiness of the bread. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat ricotta instead of whole milk ricotta?

Yes, you can use low-fat ricotta, but the whipped texture will be less creamy and rich. Whole milk ricotta provides the best flavor and consistency for this recipe.

What can I serve with whipped ricotta besides crostini?

Whipped ricotta pairs well with toasted pita chips, fresh vegetable sticks, crackers, or as a dollop over roasted vegetables and salads for added creaminess.