Imagine a dish that captures the essence of sun-ripened tomatoes, transformed into a culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with delight. This Marinated Tomatoes with Whipped Ricotta recipe is not just a simple side dish—it's a gourmet experience that elevates fresh ingredients into a stunning, restaurant-quality appetizer that will impress even the most discerning food lovers. With just 15 minutes of preparation, you'll create a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that looks like it was crafted by a professional chef.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by selecting ripe, firm tomatoes with vibrant color and no blemishes. Wash tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water.
- Slice tomatoes into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds or wedges, ensuring consistent thickness for even marinating.
- In a shallow mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the marinade.
- Gently place tomato slices into the marinade, ensuring each slice is lightly coated. Let tomatoes rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
- In a separate clean bowl, use an electric mixer or whisk to whip ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Season whipped ricotta with a pinch of salt and pepper, adjusting to personal taste preferences.
- Spread whipped ricotta onto a serving platter, creating a smooth, even base.
- Carefully arrange marinated tomato slices atop the ricotta, overlapping slightly for an elegant presentation.
- Drizzle remaining marinade over tomatoes for additional flavor.
- Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like basil, oregano, or chives for added aroma and color.
- Serve immediately at room temperature as an appetizer or light summer dish.
Tips
- Choose tomatoes wisely: Select ripe, firm tomatoes with deep, rich color for the best flavor and texture.
- Marinating magic: Let tomatoes sit in the marinade for exactly 10 minutes to absorb flavors without becoming soggy.
- Whipping technique: Use an electric mixer for the ricotta to achieve an ultra-smooth, creamy consistency.
- Temperature matters: Serve at room temperature to maximize flavor development and ensure the best taste experience.
- Herb selection: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or chives to customize the dish's aromatic profile.
- Presentation is key: Arrange tomato slices carefully, slightly overlapping, for a visually stunning plate.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the whipped ricotta and marinate tomatoes up to 2 hours in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
