Ricotta cheese, with its creamy texture and mild flavor, is a staple in Italian cuisine. Versatile and rich in protein, ricotta elevates a variety of dishes, from savory mains to sweet desserts. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, incorporating ricotta into your meals can bring authentic Italian flavors to your table. Here are some easy and delicious recipes made with ricotta cheese that will enhance your Italian kitchen repertoire.
Table of Contents
- 1. Classic Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- 2. Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes
- 3. Ricotta Gnocchi
- 4. Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake
- 5. Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Tips for Using Ricotta in Your Italian Kitchen
- Conclusion
1. Classic Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Ingredients:
– 20 jumbo pasta shells
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
– 1 egg
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture and place them in a baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
2. Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– Butter or oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated; the batter will be thick.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil.
5. Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the skillet, forming pancakes.
6. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
7. Serve with fresh berries, honey, or maple syrup.
3. Ricotta Gnocchi
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and nutmeg.
2. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
3. On a floured surface, roll the dough into long ropes about 1/2 inch thick.
4. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces and press each piece lightly with a fork to create ridges.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove with a slotted spoon and serve with your favorite sauce, such as marinara or browned butter with sage.
4. Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake
Ingredients:
– Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– Filling:
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3/4 cup sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat ricotta and cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Allow to cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
5. Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ricotta, spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff each pocket with the ricotta mixture and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve with a side of pasta or a fresh salad.
Tips for Using Ricotta in Your Italian Kitchen
Texture Matters: Ricotta can vary in moisture content. For baked dishes like lasagna or stuffed shells, using a drier ricotta helps prevent excess moisture, ensuring a better texture.
Sweet vs. Savory: While ricotta is commonly used in savory dishes, it also shines in desserts. Adjust the sweetness based on your recipe’s needs.
Freshness is Key: Fresh ricotta offers the best flavor and texture. If possible, opt for whole milk ricotta for a richer taste.
Season Well: Ricotta has a subtle flavor that benefits from proper seasoning. Don’t hesitate to enhance it with herbs, spices, or citrus zest.
Conclusion
Ricotta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can transform simple dishes into Italian culinary delights. From hearty stuffed shells to light and fluffy pancakes, the possibilities are endless. Incorporate these easy and delicious ricotta recipes into your cooking routine to add authentic Italian flavors to your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or entertaining guests, ricotta-based dishes are sure to impress.