Whipped Ricotta Dip with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
If you’re looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer that comes together in minutes, this Whipped Ricotta Dip with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil is the perfect recipe. Creamy ricotta gets blended until light and airy, then folded with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a bright, Italian-inspired dip. Whether you're planning a game-day spread, hosting a dinner party or just want a flavorful spread for sandwiches, this dip is an easy way to elevate your appetizer game!
Prep Time10 minutesmins
Total Time10 minutesmins
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: appetizer, basil, Game Day, Game Day Appetizers, Ricotta, Ricotta Dip, sandwich, Sandwich Spread, Snack, sun-dried tomatoes, Whipped Ricotta, Whipped Ricotta Dip
¼cupextra virgin olive oilplus more for drizzling; see tip below
½teaspoonsalt
½teaspoonpepper
1clovefresh garlicminced or grated
1teaspoonlemon zest
¼cupsun-dried tomatoesoil-packed for best flavor
¼cupfresh basilchopped
1tablespoonbalsamic glazefor drizzling
red pepper flakesoptional
crostini, crackers or breadsticksoptional, for serving
Instructions
Add the ricotta, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic and lemon zest to the food processor and blend together for 1-2 minutes until whipped and creamy.
Add in the sun-dried tomatoes and basil, reserving a bit for garnish, and pulse until the dip reaches your desired consistency.
Remove the ricotta mixture from the food processor and transfer to a serving dish. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and extra olive oil.
Garnish with the remaining sun-dried tomatoes and basil. For some optional heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve with crostini, crackers or breadsticks.
Notes
Make-Ahead Tip: Prep the whipped ricotta up to 24 hours in advance and stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and basil just before serving for the freshest flavor.
Make your own ricotta - it's easy! Use my quick recipe and try your hand at making your own at home.
For extra fluffy whipped ricotta, let the ricotta come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before blending. This helps it whip up light and airy instead of dense!
For extra flavor, use some of the olive oil that the sun-dried tomatoes come in when the recipe calls for olive oil, right before whipping the ricotta.
If you prefer a warm version, bake the dip at 350°F for 10 minutes before garnishing.
Storage and Reheating:
Fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating. This dip is best served cold or at room temperature - just give it a quick stir before serving!
Freezing. Not recommended, as ricotta can become grainy when thawed.