Pillowy, light, and cool, ricotta should be the cheese you reach for when temperatures rise. The result of adding an acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to whole milk, this centuries-old fresh Italian cheese (historically crafted with the whey left over from cheesemaking) is a cook’s dream—its silky texture and creamy flavor make it a blank canvas for all sorts of dishes, from lasagna and stuffed shells to mousses, puddings, and cakes.
And though your zia might disagree, there’s more to ricotta than old-school pasta dishes and desserts. Start with a homemade batch or choose a version made with top-notch milk, then discover new ways to use an old favorite in the recipes ahead.
1. Fava, Pea, and Radish Salad
This refreshing salad tastes just like summer—the soft cheese highlights its crunchy textures.
2. Grilled Broccoli Rabe
3. Zucchini Fritters
4. Baked Ricotta Puddings with Plum Compote
These puddings are reminiscent of ricotta cheesecake, but come together much more quickly.
5. Spicy Spinach and Sausage Calzones
Spicy Italian sausage gives these calzones a little kick.
Molly Shuster
Molly is a freelance food stylist, writer and recipe developer. She is one of the co-recipe editors of Gather Journal and has had her work published in various publications including Boston Magazine, Yankee Magazine, The New York Times, Food and Wine, Family Fun, The Boston Globe and Edible Vineyard, among others. Molly currently divides her time between New York and Boston.
