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Lemon Ricotta with Honey and Basil Recipe


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4.2 from 1 review

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Description

This Lemon Ricotta recipe is a light and refreshing dish perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. Combining creamy whole milk ricotta with bright lemon zest, a drizzle of honey, and a hint of basil, it brings together the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and herbaceous flavors in just 10 minutes.


Ingredients

For the Lemon Ricotta:

  • 1 lemon
  • 3 teaspoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Basil leaves, thinly sliced into strips


Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Wash and thoroughly dry the lemon and basil leaves to ensure no residues remain, preserving freshness and flavor.
  2. Zest the Lemon: Carefully zest only the yellow peel of the lemon, avoiding the bitter white pith, and set aside the fragrant zest for later use.
  3. Make Lemon-Honey Drizzle: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice from the zested lemon. Stir well to blend the sweet and tangy flavors into a smooth dressing.
  4. Whip the Ricotta: Place the ricotta and salt into the bowl of a stand mixer or a mixing bowl if using a hand mixer. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes until the ricotta becomes smooth and slightly aerated.
  5. Spread Ricotta: Transfer the whipped ricotta to a shallow bowl or plate. Use the back of a spoon to spread the ricotta decoratively, creating a soft, inviting base for toppings.
  6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the fresh lemon zest evenly over the ricotta. Drizzle the lemon-honey mixture generously on top, then finish by scattering the thinly sliced basil leaves for a fresh herbal note.

Notes

  • Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture; part-skim ricotta will be less rich.
  • Fresh lemon zest is key to achieve the bright citrus flavor, avoid using dried lemon zest.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten free and vegetarian.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature as a dip, spread for toast, or alongside fresh vegetables.
  • Adjust the honey amount based on your preferred sweetness level.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian