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Ricotta-Herb Dip

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Ricotta-Fresh Herb Dip
After a flurry of summer travel, I came home to an herb garden that more closely resembled a jungle. Thyme cascaded over the edge of the bed, my oregano looked like a small shrub, and basil was everywhere. I am always surprised when this happens.

Prepped Ingredients

In the spring, right after planting, every snip taken seems on the verge of ending the young plant’s life. I’m so eager to harvest that I find it hard to sit back and let them grow. Yet without fail, halfway through the summer and despite my efforts to the contrary, I find myself with more herbs than I know what to do with it and a flurry of activity ensues.

Thyme Basil Flat Leaf Parsley

Last night, I made a big batch of basil pesto. Some was tossed with warm noodles and promptly enjoyed, while the remainder was divided up into smaller portions and frozen. This winter, when the weather is bleak and dreary, I have a feeling I’ll be glad to have a bit of summer in my freezer.

Herbs from the Garden

The remaining herbs, clippings from my effort of getting my garden back under control, went into this dip. I first got the idea for this recipe from Dorie Greenspan. She is the talented chef and author of many cookbooks, including Around My French Table, that includes the recipe for “Lyonnaise Garlic and Herb Cheese (aka Boursin’s Mama).”

Minced Red Bell Pepper

I’ve always been a fan of boursin and her variation did not disappoint. It’s much lighter and fresher than what you get in the foil wrappers and since trying it for the first time I’ve made several variations, including the one below, when I have a surplus of herbs in my house.

Ricotta Draining Ricotta Draining Close-Up

While simple to make, I do recommend draining the ricotta overnight. Sometimes this yields quite a bit of liquid, while other times depending on the brand, it’s just a few drops. Taking the time to do this however makes this dip not only suitable for vegetables, but also as a spread for toast or sandwiches. I personally plan on enjoying it for breakfast spread on a bagel and topped with sun-kissed tomato slices.

Ready to Eat

Ricotta-Herb Dip – Printer Friendly Recipe
Makes about 2 cups

Adapted from “Lyonnaise Garlic and Herb Cheese (aka Boursin’s Mama)” in Dorie Greenspan’s Around My French Table

This dip practically begs for variations and I encourage you to try it with whatever herbs you have on hand. Wherever your tastes lead you, be sure to use plenty of herbs for maximum flavor. And please, if you stumble upon a particularly delicious combination, share it with me.

1 (16-ounce) container whole milk ricotta cheese
1 small shallot, finely chopped
3 tablespoons minced red bell pepper
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons minced flat leaf parsley
1 ½ tablespoons finely chopped chives
1 heaping tablespoon finely chopped thyme
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chiffonade (thinly sliced)*
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Spoon the ricotta into a fine mesh strainer set over a bowl. If you do not have a fine mesh strainer, line a colander with cheesecloth and set it over a bowl.   Cover the cheese with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to drain for at least 3 hours and preferably overnight.

Spoon the drained ricotta (discarding any liquid) into a medium bowl. Stir in the remaining ingredients and season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days.   If refrigerating, add the basil right before serving as it tends to brown. While the flavor won’t be affected, appearance might.



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