Description
This no-cook appetizer delivers a creamy, dreamy experience packed with vibrant colors and rich flavors. Perfect for a cozy night in or an easy setup to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives
- ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp chopped roasted red peppers
- 1 tbsp torn fresh basil
- 1 tbsp toasted pine nuts
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
- Warm pita bread or crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Start by preparing your toppings. Cut the cherry tomatoes into halves, ensuring they retain their juices to seep into the ricotta. Chop the roasted red peppers into small, manageable pieces. Tear the basil leaves into smaller portions to release their aromatic oils and flavors. Lastly, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium-high heat until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
- Choose your serving board or platter and spread the ricotta generously across the surface, creating a creamy base. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil in artistic streaks across the ricotta, enhancing its creaminess. Sprinkle the lemon zest over the top to introduce a bright, citrusy aroma, and if you’re inclined towards spice, add a hint of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
- Gently place the Kalamata olives around the ricotta, adding visual contrast and a savory tang. Nestle the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped roasted red peppers across the board. With a gentle hand, sprinkle the torn basil leaves over the top and finish with a shower of toasted pine nuts, adding a refined crunch.
- Give your board the finishing touches with a light seasoning of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to balance the multitude of flavors. Accompany your creation with warm pita bread or crunchy crackers and serve immediately to best enjoy the fresh components at their peak.
Notes
Ensure the ricotta is at room temperature for easy spreading. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If out of Kalamata olives, other brined olives can be a pleasant alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Protein: 10 g