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Lemon Garlic Baked Ricotta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 65 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Lemon Garlic Baked Ricotta is a creamy, flavorful appetizer that’s quick to prepare and sure to impress. Made with rich ricotta cheese combined with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil, this baked dish develops a lightly browned top and a luscious texture inside. Perfect when served warm with toasted garlic bread, it makes for a delightful starter or snack.


Ingredients

Scale

Ricotta Mixture

  • 2 cups full-fat ricotta cheese (the best quality you can afford)
  • 1 to 3 tbsp full-fat cream or milk (optional, only required if not using fresh Italian ricotta)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Finishing

  • 2 tbsp olive oil


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare it for baking the ricotta.
  2. Prepare the Ricotta: Place the ricotta in a mixing bowl. If you are using supermarket ricotta, which tends to be drier than fresh Italian varieties, add 1 to 3 tablespoons of cream or milk to loosen it to a creamy, spreadable texture similar to peanut butter.
  3. Add Flavorings: Stir in the lemon zest, minced garlic, and salt until all ingredients are well combined, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed.
  4. Assemble in Ramekins: Use one-cup capacity ramekins or any oven-proof dish. Divide the ricotta mixture evenly between these dishes. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the tops, reserving the remaining tablespoon for later.
  5. Bake: Place the ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly browned and bubbling.
  6. Finish and Serve: Remove the ricotta from the oven and drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Serve immediately alongside toasted bread slices, ideally rubbed gently with garlic for an extra burst of flavor.

Notes

  • If using supermarket ricotta, adding cream or milk helps achieve the right creamy consistency.
  • Adjust garlic quantity to taste for milder or more intense garlic flavor.
  • Use fresh lemon zest for the best citrus aroma and brightness.
  • Serve warm for the creamiest texture and optimal taste experience.
  • Toasted bread rubbed with garlic complements the dish perfectly, adding crunch and depth.