Ingredients:

  • 15 oz container Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese (well-drained)
  • 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (standard oil for whipping)
  • Zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 1 tsp Fresh Lemon Juice (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp Fine Sea Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder (or finely minced clove)
  • 1 Tbsp High-Quality Finishing Olive Oil
  • 2 Tbsp Fresh Chives or Basil (finely chopped)
  • Pinch Flaky Sea Salt (Maldon)

Instructions:

  1. Drain the Ricotta: Line a fine-mesh sieve with two layers of cheesecloth or a clean tea towel. Place the sieve over a bowl. Transfer the ricotta into the lined sieve. Allow it to drain in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2–4 hours. This removes excess moisture, ensuring a thick, non-watery dip.
  2. Prep the Aromatics: Zest the lemon. Measure out the base olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the well-drained ricotta, 2 Tbsp of standard olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder into the bowl of a food processor fitted with the blade attachment.
  4. Begin the Blitz: Secure the lid. Process the mixture continuously for 2–3 minutes. Stop halfway through to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula.
  5. Achieve Velvety Texture: Continue processing until the mixture is completely smooth, airy, and increased slightly in volume. It should look like thick, whipped frosting—silky and light.
  6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the whipped dip. Adjust seasoning now, adding more salt or pepper as required. If the flavour needs more lift, add another drop of lemon juice.
  7. Chill (Optional but Recommended): Transfer the finished dip to an airtight container and chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavours to meld and the dip to firm up slightly.
  8. Plate and Garnish: Spoon the chilled dip into a shallow serving bowl, creating a slight well in the center. Drizzle the high-quality finishing olive oil generously over the top of the dip.
  9. The Final Touch: Sprinkle with the fresh chopped herbs and a pinch of flaky sea salt (like Maldon). Serve immediately.