Homemade Creamy Ricotta Cheese Salad
Homemade Creamy Ricotta Cheese Salad
Crafting a Deluxe Ricotta Cheese Salad at Home with Milk and Cream
Learn how to easily make a soft and delicate homemade ricotta cheese using milk and cream from your refrigerator, and create a delightful salad with it. This recipe offers a rich, creamy texture and a mild, satisfying flavor. It’s a healthy option as it contains no artificial additives. Enjoy this wonderful ricotta cheese salad for a delightful brunch or a light meal!
Homemade Ricotta Cheese Ingredients- 1 carton Milk (900ml)
- 500ml Heavy Cream
- 1 fresh Lemon
- 1 Tbsp Sugar
- 0.3 Tbsp Salt
Salad Dressing Ingredients- 3 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 Tbsp White Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 Tbsp fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 Tbsp Honey
- 1 handful Minced Onion (approx. 2 Tbsp)
- Pinch of Salt
- Pinch of Black Pepper
- 3 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 Tbsp White Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 Tbsp fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 Tbsp Honey
- 1 handful Minced Onion (approx. 2 Tbsp)
- Pinch of Salt
- Pinch of Black Pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare a saucepan for making the ricotta cheese. Pour the milk and heavy cream into the saucepan. Generally, a milk-to-cream ratio of 2:1 works best. For instance, use 500ml of cream for 1 liter of milk. In this recipe, we’ll use 900ml of milk and 500ml of cream for a rich flavor.
Step 2
To enhance the flavor of the milk and cream mixture, add a little sugar and salt. Using a standard tablespoon, add 1 tablespoon of sugar and 0.3 tablespoon of salt. This balance will create a perfect harmony between the cheese’s mildness and a subtle sweetness.
Step 3
Cut the fresh lemon in half and squeeze out the juice. If you are using store-bought lemon juice, about 4-5 tablespoons will suffice. Lemon juice plays a crucial role in curdling the cheese.
Step 4
Place the saucepan with the ingredients over medium heat and begin to warm it. Once the milk mixture starts to gently bubble, reduce the heat to low. Add the prepared lemon juice, stir gently with a spatula just two or three times, and then let it simmer on low heat. Avoid stirring too vigorously, as this can prevent the cheese from curdling properly.
Step 5
Continue to cook on low heat for approximately 20 minutes. During this time, the milk will start to curdle and form soft curds, taking the shape of ricotta cheese. You don’t need to stir it during these 20 minutes; just observe the curdling process.
Step 6
After 20 minutes, when you turn off the heat, you’ll see the ricotta cheese has formed into soft curds in the pot. Line a fine-mesh sieve with cheesecloth (or muslin) and carefully pour the contents of the pot into it. Let the whey (the clear liquid remaining after making cheese) drain into a bowl placed underneath the sieve.
Step 7
Gently gather the edges of the cheesecloth to squeeze out the whey initially. Once most of the liquid has drained, tie the cheesecloth securely. Then, place a heavy pot or a weight on top to press out as much moisture as possible. It’s crucial to refrigerate it in this state and allow it to drain for at least half a day (about 6-8 hours). This step is key to achieving a firm, creamy ricotta cheese.
Step 8
After half a day, open the cheesecloth to reveal your wonderfully creamy and moist homemade ricotta cheese. While I prefer a thicker, richer texture, you can adjust the draining time according to your preference to achieve a softer or firmer consistency.
Step 9
Serve the beautifully made ricotta cheese in desired portions, and your ‘Homemade Ricotta Cheese’ is complete! Store the finished ricotta cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Step 10
Wash and cut your chosen vegetables and fruits into bite-sized pieces and arrange them attractively on a plate. Now, let’s make the dressing! In a bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of white balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Add the minced onion and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk vigorously with a whisk or fork until all ingredients are well combined to create a zesty dressing.
Step 11
The homemade ricotta cheese offers a delicate, milky flavor that melts in your mouth. It pairs perfectly with fresh greens and the tangy dressing, adding a delightful touch to your meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
