Herbed ricotta spread is creamy, earthy and so simple to make. It can be used as an appetizer, dip, or used an ingredient in a recipe. This week I used this spread in two dinner entrees!
Quick Prep for Herbed Ricotta Spread
This herbed ricotta spread is so simple and quick to make. I grabbed some fresh herbs from my deck. I finely chopped them up and added them to a bowl of whole milk ricotta, salt and pepper, and garlic. Because the whole milk ricotta is so creamy and rich, I do not add olive oil to thin it out. I also just whisk it together- no need to break out the stand mixer for this one. Altogether, it takes about 10 minutes to make.
The best thing about this herbed ricotta spread, you can adjust it to your taste. If you feel it needs more herbs, seasoning or garlic then go for it. I recommend adding just a little at a time until it meets your needs. You can also mix and match the herbs. For this recipe, go for chives, basil, and thyme because they are usually the most plentiful in my planters during the summer.
How I used this recipe
Through lots of will power, I managed to NOT eat the whole bowl of ricotta while I was mixing it up. Therefore, I had enough to use in two recipes this week.
The first night, I baked this pizza which included the ricotta herb spread, marinara sauce, sliced eggplant, ham, and shredded cheese.
The second night, I used the leftover ricotta in a pasta dish. I mixed together some cooked tri-color rotini with leftover marinara sauce and diced ham in an 8inx8in baking dish. Then I topped it with dollops of the ricotta spread and shredded parmesan cheese. I baked it in the oven for about 15 minutes. The added ricotta gave the baked pasta a creamy element that was packed with flavor from the herbs.
All in All
Overall, this was a great recipe that stretched across multiple entrees this week. It was inexpensive to make and took just minutes to whip up. I can see using this in many more dishes or even as a quick dip for entertaining guests that would pair well with crackers or veggies.
Herbed Ricotta Spread
Ingredients
- 15 ounces Whole milk ricotta cheese
- 3 Tablespoons Fresh Herbs of your choice finely chopped, I used garden fresh basil, chives and thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 clove minced garlic optional
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together ricotta, chopped herbs, salt, pepper, and garlic.
- If desired, add more seasoning and herbs to taste. Use or serve immediately. If making ahead, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir again before serving.
Hi Brittany!!! I love love this site!! I’ve looked a couple of places and must be over looking good whole mike ricotta cheese. Wondering where you found good R cheese in Lexington??
I found mine at Kroger in the dairy aisle. I believe the container was red to represent whole milk.
I love how versatile this recipe is–will be trying it on pizza, next!
I have to try this!!! Thank you for sharing!!
I love the versatility. I can think of about 4 recipes to to use this in.
I love this recipe, how easy it is and all the possibilities of use! So delicious!!
Thanks and yes, so many wonderful options!
This looks super yummy and simple to make.
Simple enough recipe! I haven’t had cheese in a while, but this looks like the perfect recipe for when I have family over. Looks delicious.
Yes, definitely a great option for entertaining company.
Love the versatility!
Both of those dishes look amazing! Like you, I already love ricotta- but the addition of the fresh herbs takes it up several notches!
I love the versatility of this spread. Great job!
Thank you!
I’m definitely going to make this to stuff manicotti shells with! Thanks for the recipe!
Great idea! I love stuffed manicotti.
I never would have thought to add fresh herbs to my ricotta! Thank you! I’ll look at ricotta as more than a lasagna ingredient from now!
You’re welcome. I used to think it was only for lasagna too.
This looks delicious! Thank you so much for inspiring me with your ideas on how to use this spread! I love that you can use it in so many yummy ways!
You’re welcome! Thanks for reading.
Oh my goodness I am going to have to try to make this for our next family gathering!! Looks delicious
Great! It’s a great option for entertaining company.
What a great idea! I have chicken dinners that I’ve been looking to dress up and this is a perfect addition. Thank you for sharing!