Sonoma Gourmet Lemon Herb Ricotta Recipe
Discover the perfect Sonoma Gourmet Lemon Herb Ricotta recipe! Elevate your dishes with creamy goodness and vibrant flavors. Try it today!
- Publisher: Recipe Volt
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Servings: 2 cups
- Calories: 75 calories
Sonoma Gourmet Lemon Herb Ricotta
Sonoma Gourmet Lemon Herb Ricotta is a delightful fusion of creamy ricotta cheese infused with the bright flavors of lemon and fragrant herbs. This artisanal creation embodies the essence of Sonoma's vibrant culinary scene, where fresh, local ingredients are celebrated and elevated to new heights.
At its core, this particular ricotta is a celebration of simplicity and quality. The base of whole milk and heavy cream is carefully heated and infused with a touch of salt, resulting in a rich and velvety texture. The addition of freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a zesty brightness, while lemon zest lends a subtle aroma that enlivens the palate.
What truly sets this ricotta apart is the medley of fresh herbs woven throughout. Whether it's the earthy notes of basil, the delicate fragrance of thyme, or the bright pop of parsley, each herb brings its own unique character to the dish, elevating it to a new level of culinary sophistication.
Versatile and adaptable, Sonoma Gourmet Lemon Herb Ricotta can be enjoyed in countless ways. Spread it on crusty bread for a simple yet elegant appetizer, dollop it onto pasta for a burst of flavor, or use it as a filling for savory pastries and stuffed vegetables.
However you choose to indulge, this ricotta is sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched hillsides of Sonoma Gourmet, where every bite is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients and the artistry of homemade cuisine.
Recipe
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Sonoma Gourmet Lemon Herb Ricotta! Elevate your culinary creations with this creamy delight. Let's dive in!
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as basil, thyme, or parsley)
Method Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and salt. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 190°F (88°C) on a kitchen thermometer. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to allow the curds to form.
- Line a fine-mesh sieve or colander with cheesecloth and place it over a large bowl. Carefully pour the curdled mixture into the cheesecloth-lined sieve, allowing the whey to drain into the bowl. Let it drain for about 15-30 minutes, depending on how thick you want your ricotta.
- Once the ricotta has reached your desired consistency, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Gently fold in the lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs until well combined.
- Your Sonoma Gourmet Lemon Herb Ricotta is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately as a spread on toast, crackers, or bagels, or use it as a filling for pasta, ravioli, or stuffed chicken breasts. You can also store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Creating homemade ricotta is not only rewarding but also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and citrus zests to create your own unique variations of this Sonoma-inspired delicacy. Enjoy your culinary journey!
Recipe Video
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Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 75 reviews.
Recipe Tags: Sonoma Gourmet Lemon Herb Ricotta, Sonoma Gourmet Lemon Herb Ricotta Recipe, Recipe
Servings
There are numerous delicious ways to serve Sonoma Gourmet Lemon Herb Ricotta, each highlighting its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- As a Spread: Spread the ricotta generously on slices of toasted baguette or crusty bread. You can also pair it with crackers or crispbread for a simple yet elegant appetizer.
- In Pasta Dishes: Toss the ricotta with hot cooked pasta, such as linguine or penne, for a light and refreshing sauce. Add some sautéed vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini, for a complete meal.
- On Bruschetta: Top grilled or toasted bread with a spoonful of ricotta, then drizzle with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper for a delicious bruschetta.
- In Stuffed Vegetables: Use the ricotta as a filling for stuffed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini boats, or mushrooms. Simply fill the hollowed-out vegetables with the ricotta mixture, bake until heated through, and serve.
- In Savory Pastries: Use the ricotta as a filling for savory pastries like calzones or hand pies. Combine it with sautéed vegetables, cooked chicken or sausage, and a sprinkle of grated cheese before wrapping in dough and baking until golden brown.
- On Grilled Meats: Spoon the ricotta onto grilled chicken breasts, fish fillets, or grilled vegetables as a creamy and flavorful topping.
- In Salads: Add dollops of ricotta to salads for a creamy and tangy element. It pairs particularly well with leafy greens, roasted beets, or grilled vegetables.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Since this recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients, make sure to use high-quality whole milk, heavy cream, and fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Temperature Control: Pay close attention to the temperature of the milk mixture when heating it. Heating it to 190°F (88°C) is crucial for proper curdling and achieving the desired texture of the ricotta.
- Be Patient: After adding the lemon juice, allow the mixture to sit undisturbed for a few minutes to allow the curds to form properly. Rushing this step could result in a less creamy ricotta.
- Straining Consistency: The longer you let the ricotta drain, the thicker it will become. If you prefer a creamier texture, drain it for a shorter amount of time. For a firmer ricotta, let it drain for longer.
- Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different combinations of herbs and citrus zest to customize the flavor of your ricotta. Try adding fresh rosemary, chives, or even a hint of garlic for a unique twist.
- Storage: Store any leftover ricotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. It may firm up slightly in the fridge, so you can stir in a little extra cream or milk to loosen it up before serving if desired.
- Serve with Accompaniments: Consider serving the ricotta with a variety of accompaniments, such as sliced vegetables, olives, cured meats, or crusty bread, to create a beautiful cheese board or appetizer spread.
Ingredient Substitutes
If you need to make substitutions for the Sonoma Gourmet Lemon Herb Ricotta recipe, here are some options:
- Milk and Cream: If you don't have whole milk and heavy cream on hand, you can use half-and-half as a substitute. Alternatively, you can use a combination of milk and plain yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: If you don't have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice instead. However, fresh lemon juice will provide the best flavor. If you don't have lemon zest, you can omit it or substitute with a small amount of lemon extract for a similar citrusy flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: You can use dried herbs instead of fresh ones if that's what you have available. Keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so you'll need to use less. Start with half the amount of dried herbs called for in the recipe and adjust to taste.
- Salt: If you're trying to reduce your sodium intake or don't have salt on hand, you can omit it altogether. However, keep in mind that salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, so the ricotta may taste slightly bland without it.
- Custom Flavors: Feel free to get creative and customize the flavors of your ricotta with different ingredients. You can add minced garlic, finely chopped shallots, dried spices, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a unique twist.
Remarks
Embrace the culinary magic of Sonoma Gourmet Lemon Herb Ricotta and let its vibrant flavors elevate your kitchen adventures. Cheers to delicious moments!
