Ricotta with Crushed Olives, Almonds & Lemon

If you’re looking for a simple yet bold appetizer or snack that’s packed with flavor, look no further than Ricotta with Crushed Olives, Almonds & Lemon. This dish is everything you didn’t know you needed: creamy, tangy ricotta cheese paired with the briny punch of olives, the crunchy texture of almonds, and the zesty kick of lemon. It’s fresh, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Whether served on crostini, alongside fresh veggies, or just eaten by the spoonful, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be craving it again and again!

Why You’ll Love Ricotta with Crushed Olives, Almonds & Lemon

Here’s why this simple dish will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Quick and Easy: In just minutes, you can whip up this flavorful spread or dip that’s sure to impress. No complicated steps, just a few fresh ingredients.
• Bold Flavors: The saltiness of the olives, the crunch of almonds, and the brightness of lemon create a beautiful contrast with the creamy ricotta. It’s a perfect balance of flavors that’s satisfying and refreshing.
• Versatile: This dish can be served as an appetizer, spread on toasted bread, or even as a topping for salads or pasta. It’s an adaptable recipe that goes with almost anything!
• Healthy and Wholesome: Full of good fats from the almonds and olives, along with the protein-packed ricotta, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can make this ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight, allowing the flavors to develop even more.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for this delightful dish:

• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and mild, the base of this dish that provides a smooth and rich texture.
• Crushed Olives (Green or Black): Adds a briny, savory punch that contrasts perfectly with the mild ricotta.
• Almonds: Chopped or crushed almonds bring a delightful crunch and nuttiness to the dish.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: For a burst of freshness and zing that brightens up all the flavors.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle to bring everything together and add a rich, velvety finish.
• Fresh Herbs (Optional): A little fresh parsley or thyme adds color and a hint of herbal freshness.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, balancing the flavors and bringing everything into harmony.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to dig into this deliciousness? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Prepare the Olives and Almonds

Take your olives and chop them coarsely—about 1/4 to 1/2 inch pieces, depending on your preference. Next, roughly chop or crush your almonds to add texture and crunch.

Step 2: Mix the Ricotta

In a medium mixing bowl, add the ricotta cheese. Using a spoon or a whisk, stir it until smooth and creamy. If the ricotta is too thick, you can add a tiny bit of olive oil to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

Step 3: Add Olives, Almonds, and Lemon

To the ricotta, add the chopped olives, crushed almonds, and a generous amount of lemon zest. Squeeze in a little lemon juice (about 1 teaspoon), and mix everything together until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust with more lemon or seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Season to Taste

Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like a little extra depth, you can also drizzle in some extra olive oil for richness.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the ricotta mixture to a serving bowl or platter. Drizzle a bit more olive oil on top and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 180
Total Fat: 15g
Sodium: 190mg
Total Carbohydrates: 5g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 6g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve Ricotta with Crushed Olives, Almonds & Lemon

Here are a few delicious ways to serve this dish:

• On Crostini: Spread the ricotta mixture on slices of toasted baguette or crackers for an easy and tasty appetizer.
• As a Dip: Serve with crunchy vegetables like cucumber, carrots, or celery for a fresh and healthy dip.
• On Salads: Top your favorite salad with a scoop of this mixture for a creamy, savory boost.
• With Pasta: Spoon it over warm pasta or mix it in for a creamy, tangy sauce that’s loaded with flavor.
• With Grilled Meats: Pair it with grilled chicken, lamb, or steak for a creamy and flavorful side.

Additional Tips

• Olives: You can use either green or black olives, or a mix of both, depending on your preference. Green olives tend to be a bit sharper, while black olives are milder and slightly sweet.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil, rosemary, or oregano for a variation in flavor.
• Almond Alternatives: If you prefer, you can swap the almonds for pine nuts, walnuts, or even pistachios for a different texture and taste.
• Make It Vegan: Use a dairy-free ricotta alternative and substitute olive oil for a vegan-friendly option.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This dish actually tastes even better when made ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving.

Q2: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A2: While ricotta is ideal for its creamy texture, you can use cream cheese, mascarpone, or even Greek yogurt for a tangy variation.

Q3: Can I make this spicy?
A3: Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped fresh chili for some heat.

Q4: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving.

Q5: Can I use jarred olives?
A5: Yes, jarred olives work just as well as fresh ones. Just be sure to drain and chop them before adding to the ricotta.

Q6: How can I make this dish even creamier?
A6: Add a splash of heavy cream or more olive oil to the ricotta to make it even creamier and richer.

Q7: Can I add other nuts?
A7: Yes, try adding crushed pistachios, cashews, or walnuts for a unique twist on this recipe.

Q8: Can I use a different citrus instead of lemon?
A8: Yes, you can substitute lemon with lime, orange, or even grapefruit for a different citrus profile.

Q9: Can I serve this as a main dish?
A9: While it’s typically served as an appetizer or side dish, you can definitely enjoy it as a light main with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Q10: Can I freeze this?
A10: Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the ricotta may change in texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Conclusion

This Ricotta with Crushed Olives, Almonds & Lemon is one of those simple, yet absolutely delicious dishes that will have everyone coming back for more. The combination of creamy ricotta, briny olives, crunchy almonds, and tangy lemon is a perfect balance of textures and flavors that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you serve it on crostini, as a dip, or as part of a larger meal, it’s sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let it become your new go-to snack or appetizer!

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