Whipped Ricotta with Honey is a simple yet elegant dish that combines creamy, smooth ricotta cheese with the natural sweetness of honey and the crunch of pistachios or other nuts. This versatile recipe works wonderfully as an appetizer, light dessert, or accompaniment to fresh bread or fruit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe for its delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The ricotta is airy and rich, the honey adds a floral sweetness, and the nuts provide a satisfying crunch. It is quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and can be served on a variety of occasions—from casual gatherings to refined dinner parties.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ricotta cheese (full-fat recommended for best texture)
- Olive oil (optional, for richness)
- Honey
- Pistachios or other chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
- Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh thyme or mint (optional, for garnish)
- Salt
- Black pepper
Directions
- Place ricotta cheese in a mixing bowl or food processor. Whip until smooth and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. Add a drizzle of olive oil if using, and season lightly with salt and black pepper.
- Spoon the whipped ricotta onto a serving plate or bowl, spreading it gently.
- Drizzle generously with honey.
- Sprinkle chopped pistachios (or other nuts) and lemon zest over the top.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with warm bread, crackers, or fresh fruit.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4-6 as an appetizer.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: none
Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Savory twist: Replace honey with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or hot honey for a sweet-spicy kick.
- Fruit pairing: Top with fresh figs, berries, or sliced pears for added freshness.
- Herbed version: Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or rosemary into the ricotta.
- Citrus flair: Add orange zest instead of lemon for a different citrus note.
Storage/reheating
Whipped ricotta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving. This dish is best served chilled or at room temperature. It is not suitable for freezing.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat ricotta?
Yes, but full-fat ricotta yields a creamier, more luxurious texture.
Do I need a food processor to whip the ricotta?
No, a hand mixer or vigorous whisking will work, though a food processor provides the smoothest texture.
What bread pairs well with whipped ricotta?
Warm baguette slices, crostini, or pita work beautifully.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can whip the ricotta a day ahead. Add toppings just before serving.
How do I make it extra creamy?
Add a tablespoon of cream or mascarpone while whipping the ricotta.
Can I use flavored honey?
Absolutely, try lavender or orange blossom honey for added depth.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the ricotta mixture itself is gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free bread or crackers as needed.
What other nuts can I use?
Almonds, walnuts, or pecans work well.
How can I make it more savory?
Omit the honey and drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt and herbs.
Can I serve this warm?
It is best served chilled or at room temperature for the ideal texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Whipped Ricotta with Honey is a sophisticated yet simple dish that offers a wonderful balance of creaminess, sweetness, and crunch. Whether served as an appetizer, light dessert, or part of a cheese platter, this recipe is sure to impress with minimal effort.
PrintWhipped Ricotta with Honey
Whipped Ricotta with Honey is a simple yet elegant dish that combines creamy, smooth ricotta cheese with the natural sweetness of honey and the crunch of pistachios or other nuts. This versatile recipe works wonderfully as an appetizer, light dessert, or accompaniment to fresh bread or fruit.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: none
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Whipping
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ricotta cheese (full-fat recommended for best texture)
- Olive oil (optional, for richness)
- Honey
- Pistachios or other chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
- Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh thyme or mint (optional, for garnish)
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Place ricotta cheese in a mixing bowl or food processor. Whip until smooth and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. Add a drizzle of olive oil if using, and season lightly with salt and black pepper.
- Spoon the whipped ricotta onto a serving plate or bowl, spreading it gently.
- Drizzle generously with honey.
- Sprinkle chopped pistachios (or other nuts) and lemon zest over the top.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with warm bread, crackers, or fresh fruit.
Notes
- Savory twist: Replace honey with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or hot honey for a sweet-spicy kick.
- Fruit pairing: Top with fresh figs, berries, or sliced pears for added freshness.
- Herbed version: Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or rosemary into the ricotta.
- Citrus flair: Add orange zest instead of lemon for a different citrus note.
- Storage: Whipped ricotta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving. This dish is best served chilled or at room temperature. It is not suitable for freezing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg