How to Use Ricotta

Ricotta is the Italian word for recooked, and the name speaks to its ability to be cooked in a number of delicious ways. This slightly sweet, mellow cheese helps to create silky texture in a host of dishes — ranging from toasts and baked pastas to dips and desserts. Long a standard in Italian cooking, ricotta's mellow flavor makes it easy to incorporate into any kind of cuisine. The subtle nature of the cheese makes it great for both sweet and savory dishes. Ricotta is rich in calcium, protein, and makes a great, light alternative to heavier cheeses.

What Is Ricotta?

Ricotta is a whey cheese; traditionally made from the remnants left over from the cheesemaking process. Whey is heated, then combined with a bit of whole milk and an acid to form beautifully spongy ricotta. It is a fresh cheese, and therefore holds a lot of moisture. This helps to make it one of the freshest, most spreadable cheeses around. Try making your own ricotta by starting with whole milk to simplify the process. Here are a few recipes to help you on your way to creamy, homemade goodness:

• Sicilian Homemade Ricotta Cheese
• Easy and Delicious Homemade Ricotta Cheese
• Basic Homemade Ricotta Cheese

How to Cook With Ricotta

Lasagna and shell stuffings are just the beginning of what you can do to use ricotta to its full potential. Ricotta is full of heat-resistant proteins, so its fluffy creaminess stays intact during baking. Add it to pancakes, frittatas, and pies for a deliciously velvety tang. Elevate foods like quiches, pizza, and cookies by incorporating this fresh cheese in the mix. Ricotta can be also be sweetened and transformed into cannoli filling, fruit dip, and cheesecake. Try topping ricotta with roasted vegetables for a texturally balanced bite. The options are endless when it comes to this multitalented cheese.

Draining the excess moisture from ricotta is an important step, especially before using it in baked goods. Soggy cheese makes for heavy pie crusts and cakes. To drain properly, place a cheesecloth-lined, fine-mesh strainer over a bowl. Place ricotta in strainer, cover with plastic wrap, then place a heavy object (like a large plate) on top. Put all components in the refrigerator and let drain for at least 8 hours. Discard liquid and you'll be ready to go.

How To Substitute Ricotta

If you find yourself without ricotta on hand, it's easy to find a suitable swap. Cottage cheese is your best bet, as it's the most texturally similar. Be aware that the salt content of cottage cheese can be much higher than ricotta, so adjust your seasoning accordingly. Soft goat cheese or light cream cheese also make acceptable substitutions.

How to Store Ricotta

Keep ricotta refrigerated in a sealed container for the longest shelf life possible. It should last about 2 weeks unopened, and 5-7 days after being opened. Always use a clean spoon to scoop out the desired amount and watch for signs of spoiling like yellowing or mold.

• Can You Freeze Ricotta Cheese?