Ricotta cheese is a soft, creamy, slightly-sweet Italian cheese with a very fine curd. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Here are several ways to use ricotta cheese:
- Lasagna and Pasta: Ricotta cheese is a classic ingredient in lasagna, where it’s typically layered with pasta, sauce, and other cheeses. You can also mix ricotta with pasta for a creamy sauce, or use it as a filling for stuffed pasta like ravioli or cannelloni.
- Desserts: Ricotta cheese adds creaminess and richness to desserts. It can be used in recipes like cheesecake, cannoli filling, ricotta cake, or as a topping for pancakes or waffles. Sweeten it with honey, sugar, or maple syrup to enhance its flavor.
- Dips and Spreads: Blend ricotta cheese with herbs, garlic, lemon zest, or spices to create delicious dips and spreads. Serve it with crackers, breadsticks, or fresh vegetables for a tasty appetizer or snack.
- Salads: Dollop ricotta cheese onto salads for a creamy and tangy addition. It pairs well with salads featuring roasted vegetables, fresh greens, or fruits like berries or figs. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or olive oil for extra flavor.
