Whipped Ricotta Dip is creamy, light, and full of fresh flavor. Made with smooth ricotta cheese that’s whipped until fluffy, it’s the perfect blend of tangy and mild, making it a great dip for crackers, veggies, or even a slice of crusty bread.
I love making this dip because it feels fancy but is super easy to whip up in minutes. Adding a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs on top really takes it to the next level. I usually make a big bowl for gatherings because everyone ends up reaching for more without even thinking about it!
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this dip is alongside fresh summer tomatoes or colorful bell peppers. It’s simple, fresh, and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great little appetizer to keep on hand when friends show up unexpectedly — it makes you look like you went all out without much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: The star of the dip, ricotta should be whole milk for a creamy, rich texture. If you want a lighter version, try part-skim ricotta, but the dip won’t be as fluffy.
Olive Oil: A good extra-virgin olive oil adds fruity depth. If you don’t have olive oil, mild avocado oil works well too.
Lemon Juice: Adds bright acidity balancing the creaminess. Lime juice can substitute if you want a slightly different tang.
Herbs: Fresh herbs really lift the flavor. Rosemary and mint both taste great. Tarragon or basil could be fun swaps depending on your mood.
Chili Flakes or Oil: This gives a nice kick but is optional. If you’d like milder spice, a sprinkle of smoked paprika can be tasty instead.
Jam or Tomato Chutney: Adds a sweet contrast that pairs well with the cheese. If you don’t have these, try honey or a fruit preserve for a similar effect.
How Do You Whip Ricotta to Make It Light and Fluffy?
Whipping ricotta properly is the key to getting that smooth and airy texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Use cold ricotta straight from the fridge for best texture.
- Place ricotta in a bowl or food processor.
- Whip with a hand mixer or blend in the food processor for 1–2 minutes until creamy and light.
- Add olive oil and lemon juice during whipping so they blend smoothly and help loosen the texture.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper last to keep the flavors balanced.
Whipping adds air, turning dense cheese into a soft, velvety spread. Take your time—you’ll see it change from grainy to lush before your eyes!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Food processor or hand mixer – makes whipping ricotta quick and smooth.
- Mixing bowl – use a medium bowl to hold ingredients while whipping and mixing.
- Spoon or spatula – perfect for scraping the whipped ricotta into your serving dish.
- Serving bowl or platter – a pretty dish shows off your dip and makes it easy to share.
- Measuring spoons – to get just the right balance of olive oil, lemon juice, and seasoning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add roasted garlic for a sweet and mellow boost that blends beautifully with ricotta’s creaminess.
- Stir in finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, slightly chewy texture and rich flavor.
- Try mixing in fresh herbs like basil or thyme when mint or rosemary isn’t handy — each herbs changes the mood of the dip.
- Swirl in a little honey for a touch of sweetness, balancing the tangy cheese and sharp lemon.
How to Make Whipped Ricotta Dip?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or chili oil (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 teaspoon fresh herbs (such as rosemary or mint), finely chopped
- A small dollop of savory jam or tomato chutney (optional, for garnish)
- Toasted baguette slices or crusty bread, for serving
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5-10 minutes from start to finish. Most of the time is spent whipping the ricotta until it’s creamy and putting together the garnishes. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for last-minute gatherings or snacks.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whip the Ricotta
Place the ricotta cheese in a food processor or a mixing bowl if using a hand mixer. Whip it for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes smooth and fluffy.
2. Add Flavors
Pour in the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Continue mixing or blending until everything is blended into a creamy dip. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
3. Assemble and Garnish
Transfer the whipped ricotta to a serving dish. Use the back of a spoon to create a small well in the center. Drizzle extra olive oil into the well, add chili flakes or chili oil for spice if using, and sprinkle fresh herbs evenly over the top. Place a small dollop of savory jam or tomato chutney in the center for a pop of sweet flavor. Garnish the edges with fresh rosemary sprigs.
4. Serve
Serve the dip immediately alongside toasted baguette slices or crusty bread. Enjoy this creamy, flavorful dip as a delightful appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Low-Fat or Part-Skim Ricotta Instead of Whole Milk Ricotta?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind the texture might be less creamy and fluffy compared to whole milk ricotta. Whipping it well can help improve the texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Whipped Ricotta Dip?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Give it a quick stir before serving again, and add a little fresh olive oil if it feels too thick.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Whip the ricotta and add the basic seasoning ahead. Garnish right before serving to keep herbs fresh and the dip looking vibrant.
What Can I Substitute for the Savory Jam or Tomato Chutney?
If you don’t have those on hand, try a drizzle of honey or a fruit preserve for a similar sweet contrast that complements the creamy ricotta.