This creamy ricotta herb dip transforms simple ingredients into an elegant appetizer that’s perfect for entertaining or casual snacking. Made with fresh ricotta cheese and aromatic herbs, this ricotta herb dip delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just minutes. The combination of smooth ricotta and vibrant herbs creates a versatile dip that pairs beautifully with everything from crispy vegetables to warm bread.
SERVES: 4 | PREP: 15 MIN | COOK: 0 MIN | TOTAL: 15 MIN
Ingredients
Dairy Base
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, room temperature
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Fresh Herbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
Seasonings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Optional Garnish
- Extra fresh herbs for topping
- Drizzle of olive oil
- Cracked black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Phase 1: Preparing the Base (5 minutes)
Step 1: Remove the ricotta cheese and cream cheese from the refrigerator 30 minutes before starting. Room temperature dairy blends much more smoothly and prevents lumps in your finished dip.
Step 2: Place the ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl. Let it drain for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. This prevents your ricotta herb dip from becoming watery and ensures a thick, creamy consistency.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta and softened cream cheese. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold them together. Don’t overmix at this stage – we just want them loosely combined.
Phase 2: Herb Preparation (5 minutes)
Step 4: Wash all fresh herbs under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels. Any remaining water will dilute the flavors and make your dip less vibrant.
Step 5: Using a sharp knife, finely chop the basil leaves. Stack the leaves, roll them tightly, then slice into thin ribbons (chiffonade). This technique prevents bruising and keeps the basil bright green.
Step 6: Mince the chives using kitchen scissors or a knife. Cut them into small, uniform pieces about 1/8-inch long. This ensures even distribution throughout the dip.
Step 7: Chop the dill fronds finely, discarding any thick stems. The delicate leaves provide the best flavor and texture for your ricotta herb dip.
Phase 3: Flavor Building (3 minutes)
Step 8: Mince the garlic cloves using a garlic press or knife. For the smoothest texture, mash the minced garlic with the flat side of your knife and a pinch of salt to create a paste.
Step 9: Zest the lemon directly into the bowl with the ricotta mixture. The oils in the zest add bright, citrusy notes that complement the herbs perfectly.
Step 10: Add the lemon juice, starting with half the amount. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s mixed in.
Phase 4: Final Assembly (2 minutes)
Step 11: Add all the prepared herbs to the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle in the salt and pepper, then use a large spoon to gently fold everything together.
Step 12: Fold the ingredients using a gentle up-and-over motion, rotating the bowl as you work. This incorporates everything evenly without overworking the ricotta, which can make it grainy.
Step 13: Taste and adjust seasonings. The ricotta herb dip should be well-seasoned but not salty. Add more lemon juice for brightness, salt for depth, or herbs for intensity.
Step 14: Transfer to your serving bowl and use the back of a spoon to create a shallow well in the center. This creates an attractive presentation and gives you space for garnishes.
Chef’s Notes
Ricotta Quality Matters: Choose whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture. Part-skim versions work but will produce a slightly less rich ricotta herb dip.
Herb Substitutions: If fresh herbs aren’t available, use dried herbs at 1/3 the amount. Rehydrate them in the lemon juice for 5 minutes before mixing.
Make-Ahead Tip: This ricotta herb dip actually improves after resting. The flavors meld beautifully when refrigerated for 2-4 hours before serving.
Temperature Serving: Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Cold dip mutes the herb flavors and makes the ricotta less creamy.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 185
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Calcium: 25% Daily Value
Creative Variations
Mediterranean Ricotta Dip: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and oregano for a Greek-inspired twist that pairs beautifully with pita chips.
Spicy Herb Variation: For those who enjoy heat, try this ricotta jalapeño honey dip which combines creamy ricotta with spicy jalapeños and sweet honey.
Protein-Packed Version: Mix in crumbled bacon or prosciutto for a heartier appetizer that works well for game day gatherings.
Lighter Alternative: For a tangier option, check out this ricotta Greek yogurt dip that combines the creaminess of ricotta with the protein boost of Greek yogurt.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator Storage: Store your ricotta herb dip in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors actually intensify over time.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture becomes grainy when thawed due to the dairy content.
Refreshing: If the dip seems thick after refrigeration, stir in a tablespoon of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.
Best Serving Practice: Remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before serving to bring to optimal temperature for the best flavor experience.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: Dip is too watery Solution: Drain the ricotta longer next time, and squeeze excess moisture from herbs. Add a tablespoon of cream cheese to thicken.
Problem: Herbs are turning brown Solution: This happens when herbs are chopped too far in advance or with a dull knife. Use fresh herbs and sharp knives for best results.
Problem: Dip tastes bland Solution: Your ricotta herb dip needs more salt and acid. Add salt gradually, then brighten with additional lemon juice and zest.
Problem: Texture is grainy Solution: Overmixing or using cold dairy causes this. Use room temperature ingredients and fold gently rather than stirring vigorously.
Problem: Garlic flavor is too strong Solution: Raw garlic intensifies over time. Start with less, or roast the garlic first for a milder flavor in your ricotta herb dip.
Equipment Essentials
- Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- Fine-mesh strainer for draining ricotta
- Sharp chef’s knife for chopping herbs cleanly
- Cutting board (preferably dedicated to herbs)
- Rubber spatula for gentle folding
- Microplane zester for lemon zest
- Kitchen scissors for chives (optional)
Shopping List
Dairy Section
- Whole milk ricotta cheese (16 oz container)
- Cream cheese (8 oz package)
- Sour cream (small container)
Produce Section
- Fresh basil (small package)
- Fresh chives (small package)
- Fresh dill (small package)
- Fresh parsley (small bunch)
- Garlic (1 bulb)
- Lemons (2 pieces)
Pantry Items
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil (for garnish)
Success Secrets
- Temperature Control: Room temperature dairy ingredients blend seamlessly, creating the smoothest ricotta herb dip texture possible.
- Herb Timing: Add herbs just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and fresh flavor. Pre-chopped herbs lose their potency quickly.
- Salt Timing: Season in layers – a pinch with the garlic, more with the final mix. This builds complex flavor better than adding all salt at once.
- Quality Ingredients: Since this ricotta herb dip has few ingredients, each one matters. Invest in good ricotta and the freshest herbs available.
- Resting Time: Allow the completed dip to rest for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives all the flavors time to meld and develop depth.
