Ricotta

Ricotta is a soft, creamy Italian cheese with a mild and slightly sweet flavor. It is made from the whey left over from the production of other cheeses, traditionally sheep's milk whey, but cow, goat, and buffalo milk versions are also common. Ricotta's versatility makes it a popular ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes. Here's how ricotta is used in cooking:

Pasta Fillings: Ricotta is a key ingredient in the filling for many stuffed pasta dishes, such as ravioli, manicotti, and cannelloni. It's often mixed with other ingredients like spinach, herbs, and Parmesan cheese.

Lasagna: In lasagna, ricotta is layered with pasta sheets, sauce, and other cheeses. Its creamy texture helps to bind the layers together and adds a rich, moist element to the dish.

Cheese Spreads and Dips: Ricotta can be seasoned and used as a spread for crostini, bruschetta, or as a base for dips. It pairs well with herbs, garlic, and various spices.

Desserts and Baked Goods: Ricotta is used in sweet applications such as cheesecakes, Italian pastries like cannoli, and desserts like ricotta pie. It's also mixed into pancake or waffle batter to create a moist, tender texture.

Gnocchi: Ricotta can be used to make a lighter, softer version of gnocchi, as opposed to the traditional potato-based recipe. These gnocchi are often served with a simple sauce to highlight their delicate texture.

Toppings for Pizzas and Flatbreads: Dollops of ricotta can be added to pizzas and flatbreads before baking, providing creamy, moist pockets that complement the other toppings.

Stuffed Vegetables: Ricotta is used as a filling for stuffed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, often mixed with breadcrumbs, herbs, and other cheeses.

Salads: Fresh ricotta can be crumbled over salads to add a creamy element that contrasts with the crispness of the vegetables.

Omelets and Frittatas: Ricotta can be folded into omelets or frittatas, adding a creamy, fluffy texture and a subtle, milky flavor.

Savory Bakes: Ricotta is incorporated into savory muffins, scones, and quick breads, where it contributes moisture and a light, airy texture.

When using ricotta in cooking, it's often recommended to drain it if the recipe requires a firmer texture, as ricotta can contain a significant amount of moisture. Fresh ricotta is preferred for its superior flavor and texture, especially in dishes where ricotta is a key ingredient. Its mild flavor makes it an excellent canvas for both bold and subtle flavor pairings.