There’s something utterly delightful about dips, isn’t there? They bring people together, spark conversations, and are often the highlight of any gathering. That’s why I’m so excited to share my Olive Ricotta Dip recipe with you! This creamy, savory treat is a delicious blend of flavors that will have your friends and family coming back for more, and I can guarantee that it pairs perfectly with fresh veggies, chips, or even crusty bread.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a summer gathering at my friend Carla’s house. She whipped it up in no time, and as we lounged in her backyard, I couldn’t get enough of the dip! Since then, I’ve made it multiple times, tailoring it to my taste and those of my guests. Whether it’s a casual movie night or a fancy soirée, this dip never fails to impress.
What’s in Olive Ricotta Dip?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this dip so special:
Ricotta Cheese: This is the star of our dip! Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it the perfect base. I love using whole milk ricotta for that extra richness, but you can use part-skim if you prefer something lighter.
Olives: A mix of green and black olives will add a lovely salty punch and a hit of umami. I usually go for Kalamata and Castelvetrano olives. Just be sure to pit and chop them!
Garlic: A few cloves of fresh garlic elevate the flavor profile of this dip. If you’re not a fan of raw garlic, you can roast it for a sweeter, mellower taste.
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice adds a zing that balances the creaminess of the ricotta and the saltiness of the olives.
Olive Oil: Drizzling in some good quality olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also helps with the dip’s smooth consistency.
Is Olive Ricotta Dip Good for You?
Absolutely! This dip has several health benefits, though moderation is key.
Ricotta Cheese: Packed with calcium and a good source of protein, ricotta cheese can be part of a balanced diet.
Olives: These little nuggets are filled with healthy fats and antioxidants. Plus, they’re excellent for heart health.
The main consideration is the sodium content due to the olives, so you might want to rinse them beforehand to reduce the saltiness if that’s a concern for you. Enjoy it alongside fresh veggies for an extra nutritional boost!
Ingredients
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup mixed olives (Kalamata and Castelvetrano), pitted and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 roasted garlic head for a milder flavor)
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons high-quality olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
This recipe makes about 2 cups of delicious dip, perfect for a small gathering!
How to Make Olive Ricotta Dip?
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped olives, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture.
3. Use a fork to blend everything together until well combined. You can make it as smooth or chunky as you like.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the olives are already salty, so start with a little!
5. Serve immediately with pita chips, fresh veggies, or on crusty bread. Alternatively, refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.
Dip it Up: Tips and Variations
– Feel free to experiment with different types of olives or even add some herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh twist.
– For a zesty kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
– If you can’t find ricotta, cottage cheese works in a pinch—just give it a good mix to smooth it out.
– This dip keeps well in the fridge for a few days, but let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
I hope you give this Olive Ricotta Dip a try! It’s one of those recipes that not only tastes fantastic but also brings back sweet memories of good times. I’d love to hear your thoughts or any tweaks you make to it. Happy dipping!
