Description
An incredible Creamy Roasted Vegetable Ricotta Wreath: a stunning, make-ahead appetizer featuring a light, fluffy ricotta base topped with a colorful blend of smoky roasted vegetables and fresh basil.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, roasted and sliced
- 1 zucchini, roasted in thin half-moons
- 1 small eggplant, roasted and cubed
- Extra olive oil, for drizzling
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Crostini, focaccia, or your favorite bread, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Ricotta Base: In a food processor or mixing bowl, blend ricotta, olive oil, lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper until light and fluffy.
- Shape and Chill: Spread the whipped ricotta into a bundt pan or silicone ring mold to form a wreath shape. Smooth the top and chill for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to unmold.
- Roast the Vegetables: While the ricotta chills, roast the bell pepper, zucchini, and eggplant at 400°F (200°C) until tender and lightly charred, about 20–25 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Wreath: Carefully unmold the ricotta wreath onto a serving platter. Arrange the roasted vegetables evenly over the top.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle lightly with olive oil and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve with crostini, focaccia, or your favorite bread for dipping.
Notes
- Ricotta Prep: Use whole milk ricotta and blend it in a food processor. This is key to achieving a smooth, light, and moldable texture.
- Unmolding: To unmold cleanly, briefly dip the bottom of the mold in warm water before flipping it onto the serving platter.
- Vegetable Choice: Ensure vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces for even roasting and a clean look when arranged on the wreath.
- Make Ahead: The ricotta wreath can be molded and chilled up to 2 days in advance. Roast the vegetables and assemble just before serving.
- Serving: Serve with plain crostini. The rich flavors of the ricotta and vegetables are the focus; the bread is just the vehicle.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Roasting, Blending, Chilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Ricotta Wreath, Vegetable Wreath, Roasted Vegetable Appetizer, Festive Appetizer, Make-Ahead Appetizer, Creamy Ricotta, Mediterranean Appetizer, Holiday Appetizer, Savory Dip