Ricotta cheese is a staple in many kitchens, celebrated for its creamy texture, mild sweetness, and adaptability. Among the best choices for ricotta is Calabro Ricotta Cheese, known for being made from fresh milk rather than the whey by-product used by many manufacturers. This commitment to quality yields a ricotta that is both luscious and versatile, ideal for savory dishes like lasagna or stuffed shells, and equally delightful in desserts.
If you’re new to experimenting with ricotta cheese or want fresh inspiration, this guide offers delicious recipes to showcase the potential of Calabro Ricotta Cheese.
Why Choose Calabro Ricotta Cheese?
- Fresh Milk Production
Unlike other brands that use leftover whey, Calabro uses whole fresh milk, resulting in a creamier and more robust flavor. - Versatility
Its slightly sweet, smooth, and grainy texture makes it perfect for both savory and sweet dishes. Think lasagna, stuffed shells, lemon ricotta cakes, or even crostini toppings. - Quality Assurance
Free from gums or stabilizers, Calabro Ricotta is praised for its authenticity and taste by culinary enthusiasts.
Savory Creation: 4-Layer Lasagna
Ingredients
- Ricotta Filling:
- 1½ lb Calabro ricotta cheese
- 1 bunch fresh spinach steamed and chopped
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp dried basil
Additional Ingredients:
- 12 no-boil lasagna noodles
- Sweet Italian sausage browned
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella-cheddar mix
- 1 jar store-bought pasta sauce
- Banana ketchup optional for sweetness
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 13x9x3-inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of banana ketchup on the bottom of the pan.
- Layer uncooked noodles, ricotta filling, browned sausage, shredded cheese, and pasta sauce. Repeat for three layers.
- Top with remaining sauce, cheese, and optional Parmesan.
- Bake covered for 1 hour. Remove foil and let stand 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy this crowd-pleaser with your favorite side salad.
Sweet Delight: Lemon Ricotta Cupcakes with Dried Mango
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- â…› tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup softened butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup Calabro ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup sour milk 1 tbsp lemon juice + milk to make 1 cup
- 1 cup chopped dried mango
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Beat butter, sugar, and ricotta until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla and lemon zest.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients and sour milk. Fold in dried mango.
- Divide batter into muffin tins and bake for 20–25 minutes. Let cool, then dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with lemon glaze.
Quick Appetizer: Ricotta Cheese Board
Ingredients
- 12 oz Calabro ricotta cheese
- 1 small clove garlic sliced
- 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- Black and green olives halved
- Thinly sliced prosciutto
- Chopped toasted pistachios
- Lemon zest
- Crackers baguette slices, or breadsticks
Instructions
- Blend ricotta, garlic, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Spread on a board.
- Top with olives, prosciutto, pistachios, and lemon zest. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Serve with crackers or bread for an effortless and elegant appetizer.
Cooking Tips for Ricotta Recipes
- Avoid sinking centers in baked goods: Use accurate measurements, maintain oven temperature, and avoid overmixing the batter.
- Choose fresh ricotta: Fresh ricotta delivers better texture and taste, especially in desserts.
- Experiment boldly: Pair ricotta with both savory and sweet flavors for limitless possibilities.
Calabro Ricotta Cheese elevates any dish with its creamy consistency and premium quality. Whether you’re whipping up a classic lasagna or a luscious lemon dessert, its versatility guarantees satisfaction. Try these recipes today, and let Calabro Ricotta Cheese inspire your next culinary masterpiece!