If you are looking for a vibrant, delicious, and nutritious spread that will brighten up any snack or appetizer plate, then this Beetroot + Ricotta Cheese Spread Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, this spread is perfectly balanced with a hint of lemon zest and a touch of garlic, making it not just beautiful to look at but irresistible in flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a casual get-together or a special occasion, this recipe offers a fresh, healthy option that’s as colorful as it is tasty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a key role in delivering the spread’s signature taste and silky texture. From the natural sweetness of roasted beets to the fresh brightness of lemon juice and the smooth creaminess of ricotta, every component is essential to make this dish sing.
- Beetroots (2 medium): Roasted and peeled to maximize sweetness and soften their earthy flavor.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Provides a creamy, mild base that balances the beets beautifully.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and a smooth finish, while enhancing the spread’s texture.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing tang.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Gives a subtle citrusy aroma that complements the beets perfectly.
- Garlic clove (1, minced): Offers a gentle savory kick that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Vital for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Fresh dill or chives (1 tablespoon, optional): Injects an herby freshness for extra depth.
- Honey (1–2 teaspoons, optional): Balances earthiness with a mild sweetness, customize to your liking.
How to Make Beetroot + Ricotta Cheese Spread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beets
Start by roasting your beets. Wrap them in foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes until they are tender to the touch. Once cooled, peel the skin off easily with your hands or a paper towel. Roasting intensifies their natural sweetness and softens the texture, which is crucial for a smooth spread.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
Roughly chop the roasted beets and place them in your food processor. Add the ricotta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, scraping down the sides as needed to make sure everything is evenly mixed. This step is where all the flavors start to marry beautifully.
Step 3: Season and Sweeten
Taste your mixture and season with salt and pepper to your preference. If you want to soften the earthy notes further, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey and blend again. This little bit of sweetness elevates the spread without overpowering the other flavors.
Step 4: Add Fresh Herbs (Optional)
If you love a fresh, herbal note, stir in chopped dill or chives now. These herbs add a lovely brightness and an extra layer of flavor that makes the spread even more irresistible.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Transfer your spread into a serving bowl and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps all the flavors come together and makes the texture perfect for spreading or dipping.
How to Serve Beetroot + Ricotta Cheese Spread Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like more dill or chives on top instantly makes your spread look inviting and adds an extra pop of freshness. You can also drizzle a little olive oil or scatter some toasted nuts like walnuts or pine nuts for a delightful crunch and contrast.
Side Dishes
Serve this beautiful Beetroot + Ricotta Cheese Spread Recipe alongside crusty toasted bread, crisp crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks. It’s a versatile addition to any appetizer table or picnic basket. It pairs especially well with Mediterranean-inspired dishes, complementing flavors like olives, roasted peppers, and fresh greens.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer the spread in a glass jar with thin slices of cucumber or radish for a colorful dip parfait. Alternatively, use it as a vibrant filling for wraps, sandwiches, or even dollop it onto warm grilled meats or fish to add a creamy and tangy boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Beetroot + Ricotta Cheese Spread Recipe can be stored conveniently in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect to prepare ahead for parties or to enjoy as a quick snack during the week.
Freezing
While freezing may slightly change the texture of the ricotta, you can freeze the spread for up to one month if needed. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container and thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results. Give it a quick stir before serving to restore some of its creaminess.
Reheating
This spread is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you do want to warm it slightly, do so gently and briefly, as excessive heat can affect the texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh beets instead of roasted beets for this recipe?
Raw beets are quite firm and earthy, so roasting is recommended to bring out their natural sweetness and tenderize them, which is essential for a smooth spread. Using fresh raw beets would result in a gritty texture and sharper flavor.
Is ricotta cheese the best choice for this spread?
Ricotta is ideal because of its mild flavor and creamy texture, which perfectly balances the sweetness of the beetroot. However, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a bolder taste.
How can I make this spread vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the ricotta cheese with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or almond ricotta, and omit the honey or replace it with maple syrup. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor slightly.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
You can use a blender or even mash the ingredients by hand using a fork or potato masher. It might require a bit more effort to achieve a smooth texture, but it will still taste delicious!
Can this spread be used as a dip?
Absolutely! The creamy texture makes it a perfect dip for vegetables, pita bread, or crackers. It’s a great way to add color and flavor to your snack platter.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Beetroot + Ricotta Cheese Spread Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a fresh, colorful, and crowd-pleasing dish to their table. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to serve in so many delicious ways. Give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to favorites for appetizers and snacks alike!
Print
Beetroot + Ricotta Cheese Spread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 ½ cups
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian,Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant and creamy Beetroot + Ricotta Cheese Spread that combines roasted beets with smooth ricotta, enhanced by lemon and garlic. Perfect as a healthy appetizer, dip, or sandwich spread with Mediterranean flavors and a touch of fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Beetroot Spread
- 2 medium beetroots (roasted and peeled)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh dill or chives (chopped)
- Optional: 1–2 teaspoons honey for added sweetness
Instructions
- Prepare Beets: Roast the beets by wrapping them in foil and baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes until tender. Once cooled, peel and roughly chop them.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chopped roasted beets into a food processor along with ricotta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic.
- Blend: Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides to ensure an even consistency.
- Season and Sweeten: Taste the spread and season with salt and pepper. For a touch of sweetness, add 1–2 teaspoons of honey and blend briefly to incorporate.
- Add Herbs: If desired, fold in freshly chopped dill or chives to add a fresh herbal flavor to the spread.
- Chill: Transfer the spread to a serving bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to develop flavors before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy with crackers, toasted bread, or as a colorful and flavorful sandwich spread.
Notes
- For a bolder flavor, add a small amount of feta or goat cheese.
- To roast beets, wrap them in foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 45 minutes until tender.
