Whipped Ricotta Dip

Whipped ricotta in a bowl with honey and olive oil on top.

4.86 from 14 votes

Whipped ricotta dip is fast, foolproof, and full of contrast. Just whip ricotta with olive oil and salt, then top with honey, herbs, and toasted seeds. Serve it with garlic toast or crackers, and you’ve got an appetizer that looks fancy but takes almost no effort.

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Appetizers

Cuisine: American

Keyword: whipped ricotta, whipped ricotta dip

Servings: cup

Author: Dahn Boquist

Ingredients

1 cup ricotta cheese
3 to 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
pinch salt

Toppings

3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons sunflower seeds or chopped pistachio nuts, toasted
2 tablespoons chopped herbs thyme, parsley, mint, or rosemary
lemon zest

Instructions

Place the ricotta and salt in a mixing bowl. Whip on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until light and airy. Alternatively, you can process the ricotta in a food processor fitted with a blade attachment.
Spoon the whipped ricotta into a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, honey, sunflower seeds, and lemon zest.
Serve with fresh veggies, toast, crackers, or pita chips.

Notes

Use whole milk ricotta: If you use reduced fat it won't whip as well and tends to be grainy. Full-fat ricotta gives the dip its creamy, pillowy texture.

Mixer vs. food processor: An electric hand mixer will whip in more air, giving you a light, fluffy texture. A food processor creates a smoother, silkier dip. Choose based on the finish you prefer.

Let the ricotta drain, if needed: If your ricotta is watery, strain it in a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for 10–15 minutes. Excess moisture can make the dip loose instead of spreadable.

Serve at room temperature: Cold ricotta mutes the flavors. Let it sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving to bring out the full richness.

Top just before serving: Add honey, herbs, seeds, and zest right before you serve to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

Storage: Store the whipped ricotta (without toppings) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, and let it come to room temp for best texture.

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