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Savory Creamy Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip with Blackberries

baked lemon ricotta dip - featured image

A creamy ricotta dip with a hint of lemon, baked to perfection and topped with fresh blackberries for a tangy and sweet flavor combination. Perfect for casual get-togethers or quiet nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (375 g) ricotta cheese, whole-milk or part-skim
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small clove garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or rosemary or oregano)
  • ½ cup (75 g) fresh blackberries, washed and patted dry
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Zest and juice the lemon carefully, avoiding the white pith. Set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese with lemon zest and lemon juice.
  4. Add minced garlic, olive oil, and honey (or maple syrup). Stir gently to blend flavors without overwhipping.
  5. Season with salt, black pepper, fresh thyme leaves, and optional red pepper flakes.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until edges turn light golden brown and center remains soft but set.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly (about 5 minutes).
  9. Top generously with fresh blackberries.
  10. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

If ricotta feels grainy, pulse it in a food processor before mixing for a smoother texture. Use whole-milk ricotta for richer flavor. Avoid watery ricotta by draining excess liquid if needed. Tent with foil if edges brown too quickly. Do not overbake; center should jiggle slightly. Fresh lemon zest is key for best flavor. Can substitute blackberries with raspberries or blueberries. For dairy-free version, use firm tofu or cashew cream but adjust baking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: ricotta dip, baked dip, lemon ricotta, blackberry dip, savory dip, creamy dip, easy appetizer, brunch recipe