Whipped Ricotta Dip with Lemon and Olive Oil

Whipped ricotta dip is one of my favorite Italian-inspired dips to pair with charcuterie or snack boards as it is light, creamy, and very versatile. By whipping it with olive oil and a touch of honey, you transform ricotta into an airy, spreadable dip that’s absolutely addictive.

This whipped ricotta dip recipe takes just 5 minutes to make and works beautifully as an appetizer, snack, or even breakfast spread. You can serve it with crusty bread, crackers, or sliced vegetables. And if there’s any left over, I like to use it in the morning as a spread for ricotta toast with sliced fruit.

Here are a few tips on how to make the best whipped ricotta. And if you’re ready to make it now, just click the jump-to-recipe button above. Enjoy!

What Is Ricotta Cheese Used For?

Ricotta is an Italian whey cheese that you’ll often find stuffed in ravioli, manicotti, or layered in a cheesy lasagna. It is incredibly mild and easily takes on the flavor of other spices and ingredients which is why it’s also the preferred cheese in desserts like cheesecake or cannoli filling. It’s also what makes it perfect for making into a savory whipped ricotta dip!

What Does Ricotta Cheese Taste Like?

Fresh ricotta has a mild, slightly nutty flavor. And store bought ricotta tends to be even more neutral. The texture is thick and creamy, with tiny granules throughout. Because of its neutral flavor, ricotta works well in both sweet and savory dishes. So you’ll find it in both dinner casseroles and desserts!

How to Make Whipped Ricotta Dip

Personally, I’ve found the best (and easiest!) way to make whipped ricotta dip is with a blender or food processor. I’ve tried making it in a stand mixer too, but then it tends to be too full of air and bubbles. A blender or food processor makes whipped ricotta dip nice and creamy and smooth, plus it emulsifies the oil and blends in the other flavors, such as lemon zest and spices, more evenly than a mixer.

To make it, simply add your ricotta cheese, olive oil, honey, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to your blender or food processor. Pulse a few times to incorporate everything, then blend on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The ricotta should transform from grainy to silky. If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend for less time. For an ultra-smooth whipped ricotta dip, blend for the full minute. It’s really that simple!

What To Serve With Whipped Ricotta Dip

Bread and Crackers: Crusty baguette slices, pita chips, or your favorite artisan crackers are perfect for scooping up this whipped ricotta dip. I love toasting baguette slices with a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Fresh Vegetables: Try it with carrot sticks, cucumber rounds, cherry tomatoes, or bell pepper strips for a lighter option.

Fruit: Fresh figs, sliced pears, or apple slices pair beautifully with the lemon and honey notes in this dip.

Charcuterie Boards: Whipped ricotta dip is a must-have on any Italian-inspired charcuterie board. Serve it alongside prosciutto, salami, olives, and marinated artichokes.

Toast or Crostini: Spread it on morning toast and top with fresh berries and honey, or use it as a base for savory crostini with roasted vegetables.

More Recipes You’ll Enjoy

• Baba Ganoush
• Homemade Hummus
• Ricotta and Raspberry Stuffed French Toast
• Mint Lemonade