Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip with Blackberries & Honey: A Tangy, Sweet Appetizer

If you’re looking for a unique and sophisticated appetizer, this Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip with Blackberries & Honey is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. The ricotta and goat cheese combination provides a smooth and rich base, while fresh blackberries add a juicy pop of sweetness. Drizzled with honey and garnished with thyme, this dip is a delightful contrast of flavors that pairs beautifully with toasted bread or crackers. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a cozy appetizer for family, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
• 4 oz fresh goat cheese, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp coarse salt
• Fresh cracked black pepper
• 6 oz blackberries
• 2 tbsp honey

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Lightly spray a 9-inch oval baking dish or any shallow dish with a 3-cup volume with cooking spray. This will ensure the dip doesn’t stick and comes out easily when serving.

2. Blend the Cheese Mixture:

• In a food processor, combine the 8 oz ricotta cheese, 4 oz softened goat cheese, 1 large egg, zest of 1 lemon, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp fresh thyme, 1 clove garlic (minced), ½ tsp coarse salt, and several grinds of fresh cracked black pepper.
• Blend the mixture for about 2 minutes until smooth and creamy.

3. Prepare the Dish:

• Pour the cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
• Distribute the 6 oz blackberries evenly over the top of the cheese mixture, pressing them gently into the cheese.

4. Bake:

• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the blackberries become saucy and the cheese is bubbling around the edges.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Once out of the oven, drizzle the baked dip with 2 tbsp honey for a touch of sweetness.
• Garnish with additional fresh thyme and a sprinkle of coarse salt for added flavor and texture.
• Serve the dip warm with toasted bread, crackers, or even fresh vegetables for dipping.

Recipe Tips:

• Cheese Choices: The goat cheese adds a bit of tanginess to balance the creamy ricotta. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the goat cheese with cream cheese.
• Blackberry Substitute: Not a fan of blackberries? You can swap them for raspberries, blueberries, or even figs for a different flavor profile.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this dip alongside crusty bread, pita chips, or artisan crackers. It also works well with fresh vegetables like cucumber slices or bell pepper strips for a lighter option.

Recipe Information:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Calories: 210 kcal per serving
• Servings: 6 servings

This Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip with Blackberries & Honey is a delightful and easy appetizer that combines the richness of cheeses with the tartness of lemon and sweetness of honey. The baked blackberries bring a warm, fruity element that pairs wonderfully with the creamy dip. Perfect for gatherings or intimate dinners, this dish is elegant, simple, and absolutely delicious!

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