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Lemon Garlic Baked Ricotta Recipe

4.7 from 81 reviews

Lemon Garlic Baked Ricotta is a creamy, flavorful appetizer made by baking ricotta cheese with fresh lemon zest, garlic, and olive oil until lightly browned. It is perfect served warm with toasted garlic-rubbed bread and can be garnished with fresh herbs or antipasto for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups full fat ricotta (the best quality you can afford)
  • 1 to 3 tbsp full fat cream or milk (optional, only if using supermarket ricotta)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the ricotta mixture.
  2. Prepare Ricotta Mixture: Place the ricotta in a bowl. If using supermarket ricotta, which can be dry, add 1 to 3 tablespoons of cream or milk to loosen it to a spreadable ‘peanut butter’ consistency.
  3. Add Flavorings: Mix in the lemon zest, minced garlic, and salt until well combined.
  4. Portion Into Ramekins: Divide the ricotta mixture evenly between 1-cup capacity ramekins or other ovenproof dishes. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top of each.
  5. Bake: Place the dishes in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the tops are lightly browned.
  6. Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Serve immediately with toasted bread pieces, ideally rubbed lightly with garlic for added flavor.
  7. Add Garnishes (Optional): Enhance the dish by adding fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley, chopped tomatoes with red onion and parsley, or a finely chopped antipasto mix including olives and sun-dried tomatoes.

Notes

  • Use full fat ricotta for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
  • If your ricotta is dry, adding cream or milk is essential for spreading consistency.
  • Garlic-rubbed toasted bread makes a delicious accompaniment and complements the flavors perfectly.
  • Feel free to experiment with different garnishes to customize the dish.
  • Serve the baked ricotta warm for the best taste and texture.

Keywords: baked ricotta, lemon garlic ricotta, Italian appetizer, creamy ricotta, garlic baked cheese, lemon zest ricotta