It may look like a tiny scoop of ice cream…but it’s not.
It’s a super versatile cheese that can go savory as easy as it can go sweet. And it makes some of the best pizza and pasta.
Today, we’re talking about the merits of ricotta cheese!
Tell me more about ricotta:
Ricotta is an Italian whey cheese made from milk from sheep, cow, goat or buffalo. It’s what is left over from making other cheese. I’ve also heard it’s quite easy to make at home if you have whole milk and lemon on hand. (I would love to try this sometime soon!)
Where can I buy ricotta:
I’ve found that ricotta cheese is much more readily available these days. Most grocery stores carry it, and I prefer the whole milk ricotta. It’s typically in the dairy section next to the sour cream and cottage cheese, etc.
How do I store ricotta:
Store-bought ricotta can be stored in the refrigerator for a few weeks. It looks like homemade ricotta can last in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How do I cook with ricotta:
Other than being super fun to say, ricotta is a wonderful Italian ingredient to have on hand. From your classic pasta and pizza to cheesecake, there are so many ways to use it!
Here are a few ideas for cooking with ricotta:
- On your favorite homemade pizza
- Make some stuffed shells
- Serve it fresh with some salt, pepper and olive oil with nice toasted bread or fresh tomatoes
- These veggie calzones are awesome!
- Make a super creamy lasagna
- Throw together a creamy cheesecake
- Make homemade gnocchi or ravioli