Name: Whipped Ricotta with Herbs and Honey
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk ricotta; 2 tablespoons fresh mint, roughly chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for brushing baguette slices; 3 teaspoons honey; Generous pinch sea salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 baguette, sliced (optional, for serving)

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Light, creamy, and impossibly easy, this whipped ricotta with herbs and honey is a stunning appetizer made in just 10 minutes. With bright lemon zest, aromatic herbs, and a touch of sweetness, it’s a versatile dip or spread perfect for gatherings or everyday snacking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This whipped ricotta delivers elegance with almost zero effort. A quick mix transforms whole-milk ricotta into a cloud-like base that pairs beautifully with fresh herbs and honey. It’s the perfect appetizer when you need something fast but impressive, and it works equally well with crostini, grilled bread, vegetables, or crackers. Its refreshing flavor profile makes it ideal year-round.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup whole milk ricotta
2 tablespoons fresh mint, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for brushing baguette slices
3 teaspoons honey
Generous pinch sea salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 baguette, sliced (if serving with toasted bread)

Directions

Place the ricotta in a mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer with whisk attachment or standard beaters, whip the ricotta for about 2 minutes, until smooth, creamy, and lightly aerated. Transfer to a serving bowl or spread onto a plate.
In a separate bowl, combine the mint, parsley, lemon zest, olive oil, honey, and sea salt. Stir to blend.
Spoon the herb-honey mixture over the whipped ricotta. Add freshly ground pepper to taste.
Serve with grilled baguette slices, crostini, vegetables, or crackers.
For grilled baguette: Lightly brush both sides of each slice with olive oil. Grill over medium-high heat for 1–2 minutes per side until toasted.
For crostini: Preheat oven to 375°F. Place baguette slices on a baking sheet, drizzle lightly with olive oil, coat both sides, season with salt and pepper, and bake 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Swap mint for basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Add crushed pistachios or walnuts for texture.
Replace honey with a drizzle of date syrup for a deeper sweetness.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
Mix ricotta with a spoonful of feta for a sharper, tangier spread.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover whipped ricotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1–2 days. If making in advance, store the whipped ricotta separately from the herb-honey topping to prevent excess moisture. Stir before serving. This recipe does not require reheating; serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

How far in advance can I prepare whipped ricotta?

You can make it a day ahead, but store the ricotta and topping separately to avoid excess moisture.

Can I use low-fat ricotta?

Yes, though whole milk ricotta whips more smoothly and has better flavor and texture.

What can I serve with whipped ricotta besides bread?

Vegetables, crackers, pita chips, or even fruit pair beautifully.

Can I strain the ricotta before whipping?

Yes, straining helps achieve a thicker, creamier texture, especially if your ricotta is very moist.

Can the herb topping be changed seasonally?

Absolutely—use basil in summer, thyme or sage in cooler months, or a mix of fresh garden herbs.

Will the crostini get soggy if topped ahead of time?

Yes, the moisture in ricotta softens bread. Assemble just before serving.

Can I make this without honey?

Yes. Use another sweetener like date syrup—or omit sweetness entirely for a savory dip.

How do I avoid the ricotta becoming watery?

If it releases liquid during storage, simply pour it off and stir before serving. Straining beforehand also helps.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs give the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used sparingly if needed.

Is whipped ricotta suitable for savory toppings?

Yes—roasted tomatoes, olives, chili oil, or nuts turn it into a delicious savory spread.

Conclusion

Whipped ricotta with herbs and honey is the kind of appetizer that looks sophisticated yet comes together effortlessly. With its creamy texture and vibrant flavors, it’s ideal for entertaining or simple snacking. Versatile, customizable, and always crowd-pleasing, this is a recipe you’ll return to again and again.