Silky whipped ricotta crowned with juicy roasted tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and a vibrant herb oil — a luxurious and colorful appetizer that’s perfect for dipping warm crostini or fresh bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Whipped Ricotta with Roasted Tomatoes and Pine Nuts is an elegant yet simple dish that brings bold Mediterranean flavors to your table. The creamy base of whipped ricotta pairs beautifully with the sweet burst of roasted tomatoes, the crunch of toasted pine nuts, and the fresh brightness of herbs. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, this appetizer is perfect for casual gatherings, festive celebrations, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
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2 cups cherry tomatoes
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2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
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1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
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2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
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1 small shallot, finely minced
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1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Crostini or fresh bread, for serving
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 15-20 minutes until blistered and juicy.
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Meanwhile, in a food processor, blend the ricotta and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
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Spread the whipped ricotta onto a shallow serving bowl or plate.
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In a small bowl, combine the roasted tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, chopped basil, minced shallot, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
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Spoon the tomato mixture generously over the whipped ricotta.
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Drizzle with extra olive oil and season with freshly cracked black pepper.
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Serve immediately with crostini or fresh bread.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 to 6 people. Preparation time is around 10 minutes, roasting time is about 20 minutes, resulting in a total time of about 30 minutes.
Variations
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Add a layer of pesto under the whipped ricotta for an extra herby note.
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Substitute pine nuts with toasted walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a different texture.
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Mix a little lemon zest into the ricotta for a brighter flavor.
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Use slow-roasted or sun-dried tomatoes for a more concentrated tomato taste.
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Incorporate a few capers into the tomato mixture for a briny punch.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover whipped ricotta and tomato topping separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reassemble just before serving. The whipped ricotta can be re-whipped slightly if it firms up in the fridge. Reheat the tomato mixture gently if desired, although it is best served at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make whipped ricotta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the whipped ricotta up to a day in advance and refrigerate it.
What type of ricotta should I use?
Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest and richest result.
How do I toast pine nuts?
Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently.
Can I use store-bought roasted tomatoes?
Yes, but freshly roasted tomatoes provide better flavor and texture.
What should I do if my ricotta is watery?
Drain the ricotta in a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth for about 30 minutes before whipping.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can use a dairy-free ricotta substitute and omit or replace the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.
How do I prevent the tomatoes from bursting too much while roasting?
Roast at a high temperature and avoid overcooking to maintain some of their shape.
What bread works best for serving?
Crostini, baguette slices, rustic country bread, or pita wedges all complement the whipped ricotta beautifully.
Can I add other herbs?
Yes, fresh oregano, thyme, or mint can also enhance the flavor profile.
How long will the assembled dish stay fresh?
It is best enjoyed immediately after assembling, but it can be refrigerated for a few hours if needed before serving.
Conclusion
Whipped Ricotta with Roasted Tomatoes and Pine Nuts is a vibrant, flavorful appetizer that feels luxurious yet is incredibly easy to make. With its creamy base, juicy tomatoes, and nutty crunch, this dish is sure to become a favorite for entertaining or simply treating yourself to something special. Serve it with fresh bread for a truly unforgettable experience.
Print
Whipped Ricotta with Roasted Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Roasting, Blending, Assembly
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Whipped Ricotta with Roasted Tomatoes and Pine Nuts is a luxurious, colorful appetizer featuring creamy whipped ricotta topped with juicy roasted tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and a vibrant herb dressing. Perfect for dipping crostini or fresh bread, this easy dish adds a burst of Mediterranean flavor to any gathering!
Ingredients
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
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2 cups cherry tomatoes
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2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
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1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
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2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
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1 small shallot, finely minced
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1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Crostini or fresh bread, for serving
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 15–20 minutes until blistered and juicy.
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Meanwhile, in a food processor, blend the ricotta and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
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Spread the whipped ricotta onto a shallow serving bowl or plate.
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In a small bowl, combine the roasted tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, chopped basil, minced shallot, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
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Spoon the tomato mixture generously over the whipped ricotta.
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Drizzle with extra olive oil and season with freshly cracked black pepper.
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Serve immediately with crostini or fresh bread.
Notes
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For an extra savory kick, add a few chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the topping.
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Use full-fat ricotta for the creamiest, richest texture.
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Can be prepared ahead — assemble just before serving for best results.
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A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving enhances the flavor.
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