Whipped Ricotta with Lemon, Honey, and Thyme Recipe
This Whipped Ricotta recipe transforms creamy whole milk ricotta into a smooth, luscious spread enhanced with fresh lemon zest, honey, and thyme. Perfect as an appetizer or snack when paired with crostini or toasted pita bread, it combines sweet, tangy, and herbal flavors in a simple yet elegant dish.
- Author: Lily
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup, serves 4 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main 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)
- Combine Ingredients: Add the ricotta, heavy cream, lemon zest, honey, fresh thyme, salt, and freshly cracked pepper to a medium-sized bowl, ensuring all components are ready for whipping.
- Whip the Mixture: Using a hand mixer fitted with beaters, beat the ingredients on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until the ricotta becomes smooth, creamy, and light in texture.
- Prepare for Serving: Transfer the whipped ricotta to a serving dish carefully, smoothing the surface for an appealing presentation.
- Garnish: Drizzle additional honey over the top, sprinkle with more lemon zest and fresh thyme, and add red pepper flakes if desired for a dash of heat and color.
- Serve: Offer the whipped ricotta with crostini or toasted pita bread as a delicious appetizer or snack option.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture; part-skim ricotta may result in a denser spread.
- Adjust honey quantity to taste, opting for hot honey to add a subtle spicy kick.
- Fresh lemon zest brightens the flavor; add more on top for a refreshing aroma and taste.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but recommended for a balanced spicy contrast.
- Whip thoroughly for the lightest texture; under-whipping can result in a grainier consistency.
Keywords: Whipped Ricotta, Ricotta Spread, Appetizer, Italian, Creamy Ricotta, Lemon Ricotta Spread, Honey Ricotta, Vegetarian Appetizer