Irresistible Baked Ricotta with Prosciutto Arugula Roll-Ups
If you're looking for the perfect dish to impress your guests at your next gathering, look no further. Our delightful Baked Ricotta Dip paired with scrumptious Prosciutto Arugula Roll-Ups offers a symphony of savory and sweet that satisfies every palate.
The Baked Ricotta Dip is creamy, tangy, and oh-so-delicious, featuring whole milk ricotta blended seamlessly with garlic, lemon zest, and Parmesan. Choosing a good quality ricotta, preferably whole milk, makes all the difference, ensuring a rich, lush texture. The addition of extra-virgin olive oil not only binds the ingredients but also imparts a subtle fruity note, enhancing the flavor profile.
As you prepare to bake, remember to evenly distribute the mixture in your dish; this will ensure it bakes uniformly, resulting in an impeccable dip with a slightly golden top. An oven preheated to 425°F is imperative for achieving the ideal consistency—hot and ready without being over-baked.
In contrast, Prosciutto Roll-Ups bring a breeze of freshness. Wrapped with peppery arugula, sweet preserves, and rich, creamy garlic-herb goat cheese, the prosciutto takes these roll-ups to gourmet levels. When choosing fig or peach preserves, opt for ones with a natural sweetness to balance the salty prosciutto and aromatic cheese. Tossing the arugula with a splash of lemon vinaigrette may seem like a small step, but this addition brings a brightness that elevates the dish's overall flavors.
Ingredients
Baked Ricotta Dip
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped for a robust depth of flavor.
- 1 lemon, zested (1 teaspoon) for fresh citrus notes.
- 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese, creamy and smooth.
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, for richness and cohesion.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, adding a savory, nutty taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme, for earthy aroma.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, to enhance all flavors.
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper, for a kick.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, for subtle heat.
- Naan bread, pita chips, or crusty bread, optional, perfect for dipping.
Prosciutto Roll-Ups
- 4 oz sliced prosciutto (8 slices), halved for wrapping ease.
- 1 cup baby arugula, offering peppery freshness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon vinaigrette, for a zesty touch on arugula.
- ⅓ cup fig (or peach) preserves, to add sweetness.
- 4 oz Deli garlic-herb goat cheese, creamy and packed with flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper, for a finishing spice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Baked Ricotta Dip
Preheat your oven to 425°F, preparing the stage for that perfect bake.
On a cutting board, finely chop the garlic and zest the lemon, adding aromatic layers.
In a bowl, combine whole milk ricotta, the chopped garlic, lemon zest, extra-virgin olive oil, Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, kosher salt, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until all ingredients are well blended, achieving a luscious, homogeneous mixture.
Spread the ricotta mixture evenly into a 2-quart baking dish to ensure an even bake.
Bake the dip in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes until hot and just lightly browned on top. Once done, set aside to cool for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld harmoniously before serving.
Serve with naan bread, pita chips, or crusty bread to complement the creamy dip texture.
Prosciutto Roll-Ups
Cut each slice of prosciutto in half width-wise for a perfectly sized wrap.
In a small bowl, place baby arugula and drizzle with lemon vinaigrette, tossing to coat evenly for a burst of freshness.
Lay each prosciutto slice on a flat work surface. Spread a thin, even layer of fig or peach preserves over each slice, providing a sweet counterpoint to the salty prosciutto.
Crumble the garlic-herb goat cheese evenly over the preserves. For an even distribution, a light hand is key.
Top the cheese layer evenly with the dressed arugula, following up with a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for a peppery bite.
Begin at the cut edge and roll the prosciutto up over the filling, securing firmly. Place each roll seam-side-down on a serving platter to keep them intact.
Serve these elegant roll-ups immediately for complete freshness.
Tips for Troubleshooting if Something Goes Wrong with the Recipe
- If the dip is too watery: Add a bit more Parmesan or bake for a couple of extra minutes to thicken.
- Roll-ups don't hold their shape: Chill them briefly before serving to help them firm up.
- Dip is too lemony: Balance with more ricotta or a dash of olive oil to soften the citrus.
- Too spicy: If the dip or roll-ups have too much heat, serve with an extra dollop of plain ricotta or a mild cheese.
- Preserves too sweet: Add a bit more arugula or cheese to counterbalance the sweetness.
Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe
Complement this dish's savory and sweet elements with these pairings, ensuring your palate experiences a symphony of tastes:
- Side dishes: A crisp mixed greens salad with a light citrus vinaigrette would add freshness to the meal, balancing the richness of the dip.
- Drinks: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling water with a citrus garnish can provide a refreshing contrast to the flavors.
- Desserts: A simple fruit sorbet or a berry tart would offer a sweet finish without overpowering the palate.
These pairings capitalize on the contrasting textures and flavors, enhancing the dining experience with every bite.
How to Store Properly
- For refrigeration: Store both the dip and roll-ups in airtight containers in the fridge, enjoying them for up to three days for optimal texture and taste. Separate roll-ups with parchment paper to maintain their form.
- For freezing: The ricotta dip can be frozen in a sealed container and reheated seamlessly in the oven or microwave when needed. Roll-ups are best freshly made but can be prepped and stored separately if planning ahead.
Preparing ahead gives you the flexibility to enjoy these dishes on busy evenings or as a spontaneous treat. Simply thaw or reheat, and delight in the flavors you initially prepared.
FAQs
- Can I substitute the ricotta with another cheese?
- What preserves work best for the roll-ups?
- Can this recipe be made in advance?
- How do I handle the red pepper flakes if I'm sensitive to spice?
Mascapone or a soft cream cheese can lend a similar creaminess, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
Fig, peach, and even apricot preserves offer just the right amount of sweetness without overwhelming the savory elements. Experiment with your favorites!
Yes, both components can be prepped ahead. Bake the dip just before serving to retain its texture, and chill roll-ups if made in advance.
Reduce to a pinch or omit altogether, adjusting the seasoning with a subtle sprinkle of black pepper or fresh herbs.
