Ricotta Dip with Crushed Olives (Print Version)

Creamy ricotta, zesty lemon, olives, and toasted almonds make a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired starter.

# Ingredients:

→ Primary

01 - 250 grams whole-milk ricotta
02 - 80 grams mixed olives, coarsely chopped
03 - 35 grams roasted almonds, coarsely chopped
04 - Zest of 1 lemon
05 - 15–30 millilitres freshly squeezed lemon juice
06 - 30 millilitres extra virgin olive oil, divided
07 - 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
08 - 15 millilitres chopped fresh parsley or basil
09 - Salt, to taste
10 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Steps:

01 - Coarsely chop or crush the mixed olives and roasted almonds with a sharp knife or a mortar and pestle, ensuring a textured consistency.
02 - In a mixing bowl, whisk the ricotta with lemon zest, 15 millilitres lemon juice, 15 millilitres olive oil, salt, and black pepper until creamy and smooth.
03 - Spread the ricotta mixture evenly in a shallow serving bowl or small plate.
04 - Scatter the crushed olives and chopped almonds evenly over the ricotta layer.
05 - Drizzle with the remaining 15 millilitres olive oil. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes and fresh parsley or basil.
06 - Accompany with toasted sourdough, pita, or fresh vegetables. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, use high-quality ricotta and a variety of olives for layered flavour. Prepare just before serving for optimal texture.