Creamy Whipped Ricotta Dip with Garlic and Herbs
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This whipped ricotta dip is creamy, garlicky, and comes together in minutes. Serve it with toasted baguette and fresh veggies for an easy appetizer that always looks good on the table.
This is one of those recipes I find myself making on repeat when I need something easy but still a little put-together. It’s just a quick blend, a few fresh herbs, and suddenly you’ve got this creamy, swoopy ricotta dip that looks like you planned ahead.
If you love simple, spreadable starters like my whipped feta bruschetta dip, this one leans softer, more delicate, and just as easy to pull together.
Why You’ll Love It
Key Ingredients & Swaps
*For the full list of ingredients and quantities see the recipe card at the bottom of the page.
- Whole milk ricotta → the thicker and creamier, the better. Choose a high-quality whole milk ricotta for unparalleled creamy texture and flavor.
- Lemon (zest + juice) → brightens and balances the richness
- Garlic → finely minced so it blends right in.
- Honey → just enough to round out the acidity
- Extra virgin olive oil → helps create that silky, whipped consistency
- Fresh mint + basil → keeps it fresh with a slightly unexpected twist
- Red pepper flakes → just enough heat + a little contrast on top.
Optional upgrades:
- Add a spoonful of mascarpone or crème fraîche for an extra creamy finish.
- Swap mint for chives or parsley if you want something more subtle
- Roasted garlic for a softer, mellow flavor.
How to Make It
*This is an overview with step-by-step photos. For full instructions see the recipe card below.
- Blend until smooth: In a mixing bowl, whip the ricotta with the lemon, garlic, honey, salt and pepper. Then slowly drizzle in the olive oil and blend until smooth, light, and slightly fluffy—about 1–2 minutes.
- Make it extra creamy: If the ricotta feels even slightly grainy, blend a little longer or add a small drizzle of olive oil. You’re looking for a creamy consistency that’s smooth but still has some body.
Texture cue: It should be soft and spreadable, not runny.
- Fold in herbs: Transfer to a bowl and gently fold in the chopped mint and basil.
- Taste and adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to balance.
Recipe Video
Style & Finish (Simple but Polished)
This is one of those dips that really shines with a little thoughtful presentation.
Start by spooning the ricotta into a small serving bowl—a ramekin, shallow dish, or even a small plate all work here. Use the back of a spoon to create soft swoops—those peaks and valleys are what give it that styled, almost sculpted look. Drizzle olive oil into the low spots and finish with red pepper flakes and a few fresh herbs for contrast.
Place the bowl on a wood board, ceramic platter, or marble surface to add a bit of contrast, then build a relaxed spread around it:
- Crostini, toasted baguette, or crackers for something crisp
- Fresh vegetables like sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and sweet peppers for color and balance
- A few herbs or edible flowers for a subtle pop of color
Keep everything slightly loose and natural—let pieces overlap and don’t worry about perfect placement. That casual, gathered look is what makes it feel inviting.
Entertaining tip: If you’re serving a group, place extra crostini or veggies on a second plate so the board stays full and easy to navigate.
Pro Tips
- Whip longer than you think → that’s what gives it that airy texture
- Strain ricotta if needed → especially if it looks watery
- Finely mince the garlic → smoother flavor, no harsh bites
- Taste for balance → a pinch of salt or splash of lemon can bring everything together
Make Ahead + Storage
You can make this up to two days ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before serving, then give it a gentle stir and refresh with a drizzle of olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
For a simple spread:
Warm crusty bread, crostini, or seeded crackers with a side of fresh veggies like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and sweet peppers.
To build an appetizer board:
Add items like burrata and prosciutto appetizer plate, marinated olives, and fresh fruit such as grapes or berries. This dip also fits right in on this summer-style charcuterie board, especially with lots of fresh produce and lighter flavors.
For a little contrast:
Pair it with another dip like whipped feta bruschetta dip (tangy + bold), cranberry whipped feta dip (sweet + savory), or truffle burrata dip (rich + indulgent).
Variations
- Hot Honey Ricotta → drizzle with hot honey and chili flakes
- Roasted Garlic Version → swap raw garlic for roasted
- Spring Herb & Pea → blend in a handful of sweet peas
FAQs
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Creamy Garlic and Herb Whipped Ricotta Dip
Equipment
- electric hand mixer or food processor
- microplane zester or alternate zesting tool
Ingredients
- 16 oz whole milk ricotta cheese drained
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh mint chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil chopped
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Blend the base: Add the ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper to a food processor or bowl (if using a hand mixer). Blend briefly to combine.
- Whip until smooth: With the mixer or processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Continue blending for 1–2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and slightly fluffy. Texture cue: It should be soft and spreadable, not runny.
- Fold in herbs:Transfer to a bowl and stir in the chopped mint and basil (and red pepper flakes if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Transfer and finish: Spoon into a serving dish, creating a few soft swirls, then finish with olive oil and red pepper flakes.
- Serve: Serve with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, tomatoes, and sweet peppers.
Video
Recipe Notes
- Drain ricotta well for the best thick, creamy texture
- Blend until smooth and slightly fluffy (1–2 minutes)
- If grainy, blend longer or add a drizzle of olive oil
- For extra richness, add a spoonful of mascarpone or crème fraîche
- Adjust lemon and salt to taste before serving
- Best served slightly chilled or at room temperature
- Finish with olive oil and additional herbs or red pepper flakes for a simple, polished look.
Nutrition
*Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy only and should be construed as an estimate rather than a guarantee. Ingredients can vary and Maplevine Kitchen makes no guarantees to the accuracy of this information.
More Easy Appetizer Dips
If you’re building out a spread, a mix of textures keeps things interesting:
- Something tangy like my whipped feta bruschetta dip
- A sweet-savory option like my cranberry whipped feta dip
- Or a richer option like my truffle burrata dip
Did you make this recipe? Please leave a rating in the comments below and let us know how it turned out. Your feedback is important to us. Thank you for visiting Maplevine Kitchen!
