Lemon Garlic Baked Ricotta Recipe
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.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the ricotta mixture.
- 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.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the lemon zest, minced garlic, and salt until well combined.
- 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.
- Bake: Place the dishes in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the tops are lightly browned.
- 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.
- 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