Olives and Mozzarella over Whipped Pesto Ricotta

Imagine a creamy bed of ricotta cheese, whipped until light and cloud-like, infused with the herby punch of basil pesto. Now picture that topped with juicy green and black olives and torn bits of fresh mozzarella that melt into the mixture just slightly. Add a drizzle of good olive oil and a handful of crostini on the side, and you’ve got the kind of appetizer that makes everyone linger just a bit longer around the table.

Behind the Recipe

This dish was born out of a lazy summer afternoon, when I had ricotta, some leftover pesto, and a jar of olives staring at me from the fridge. I wanted something easy, but bold and flavorful enough to feel like a treat. A few swirls, a gentle whip, and suddenly I had a spread that tasted like it took far more effort than it actually did. It’s become my go-to for impromptu gatherings or even just solo snacking with style.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

This recipe is a fusion of Mediterranean influences. Ricotta, with its Italian roots, has long been a base for both savory and sweet creations. Pesto, originating from Genoa, brings a fresh, herby element that balances beautifully with the briny olives, a staple in both Greek and Italian cuisines. The combination isn’t traditional in any one region, but it feels like something you’d enjoy on a terrace somewhere along the coast of the Mediterranean.

Why You’ll Love Olives and Mozzarella over Whipped Pesto Ricotta

This dish is the perfect storm of creamy, salty, tangy, and herby. It checks all the right boxes for something that feels indulgent without being complicated.

Versatile: Spread it on toast, spoon it onto grilled veggies, or serve it as a dip with crackers and crudités.

Budget-Friendly: Uses everyday staples like ricotta, olives, and mozzarella that are affordable and easy to find.

Quick and Easy: Comes together in under 15 minutes with no stove or oven required.

Customizable: Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted peppers, or swap in different herbs or cheeses.

Crowd-Pleasing: It looks stunning, tastes amazing, and always disappears fast at parties.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the ricotta mixture a day ahead and top it just before serving.

Great for Leftovers: Spread the leftover mix on a sandwich or toss it with warm pasta for a creamy twist.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Before you whip up this beauty, here are a few little things that make a big difference:

• Use full-fat ricotta for the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
• Drain your ricotta if it’s watery. Wrap it in cheesecloth or paper towels and press out excess moisture.
• Room temperature cheese is easier to whip and blends more smoothly.
• Choose a good-quality pesto or make your own for the best herbaceous punch.
• Chop your olives roughly so they don’t overwhelm each bite.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need much, just a few kitchen staples to make this magic happen.

Mixing bowl: For whipping up the ricotta and pesto blend.

Hand mixer or whisk: A hand mixer makes quick work of whipping the ricotta, but a strong whisk and some elbow grease will do the trick too.

Spatula: To scrape down the sides and spread the mixture evenly.

Serving plate or shallow bowl: To make the presentation pop.

Spoon or small knife: For topping and swirling the ingredients beautifully.

Ingredients in Olives and Mozzarella over Whipped Pesto Ricotta

This dish brings together creamy, salty, fresh, and herby all in one gorgeous spread.

1. Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup. Acts as the creamy, fluffy base and balances all the bold toppings.
2. Basil Pesto: 3 tablespoons. Swirled into the ricotta for herby, garlicky flavor.
3. Mozzarella Cheese: ½ cup, torn into bite-sized pieces. Adds creamy, stretchy texture.
4. Green Olives: ¼ cup, roughly chopped. Bring a briny bite and a bit of tang.
5. Black Olives: ¼ cup, roughly chopped. Offer depth and saltiness to contrast the creamy base.
6. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. Drizzled over the top for richness and shine.
7. Fresh Basil: A few leaves, torn. Optional but adds freshness and color.
8. Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Enhances and balances all the flavors.
9. Crostini or Crackers: For serving. The perfect vehicle for scooping.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re short on something or want to mix it up, here are some quick swaps:

Ricotta: Whipped feta or Greek yogurt.

Basil Pesto: Sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto.

Mozzarella: Burrata or goat cheese for a tangy twist.

Green or Black Olives: Use kalamata, castelvetrano, or whatever you love most.

Olive Oil: A flavored olive oil like lemon or chili can add a fun kick.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ricotta Cheese: This soft, fluffy cheese is made from whey and has a subtle sweetness and smooth texture that makes it the perfect base for whipping.

Pesto: Made traditionally with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil, pesto brings a vibrant, herby character that instantly transforms the ricotta.

Instructions for Making Olives and Mozzarella over Whipped Pesto Ricotta

Whipping this together is just as fun as eating it. It’s one of those recipes that looks super fancy, but comes together in minutes.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   No preheating needed, but let your ricotta and mozzarella come to room temp for best texture.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta and pesto. Whip using a hand mixer for about 1–2 minutes until light and fluffy. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Grab a shallow serving bowl or plate. Spread the whipped pesto ricotta across the bottom in a swooping motion using the back of a spoon.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Top the ricotta with torn mozzarella, then scatter the green and black olives evenly across the top. Tear and sprinkle a few basil leaves for color.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   No cooking involved, just layering and flavor building.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Drizzle olive oil over everything, then finish with an extra grind of black pepper if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve immediately with toasted crostini or crackers on the side.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This dish is all about the contrast. The whipped ricotta is airy and smooth, while the mozzarella adds stretchy creaminess. The olives bring a firm, briny punch, and the pesto weaves in notes of garlic and basil. Olive oil rounds it all out with a silky richness that coats each bite. Every scoop hits a different note, but they all sing together.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Here are a few tricks to keep things smooth, balanced, and beautiful:

• Use high-quality ricotta for the best flavor.
• Let cheeses come to room temp before mixing for creamier texture.
• Add a tiny bit of lemon zest for brightness if desired.
• Toast your crostini right before serving for that perfect crunch.

What to Avoid

Even simple recipes have their pitfalls. Here’s how to dodge them:

• Overmixing: Don’t overwhip the ricotta or it can become grainy.
• Watery ricotta: Drain well if needed, or you’ll get a soupy spread.
• Oversalting: Olives and pesto are salty already, so taste before adding extra salt.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 280

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can whip the ricotta and pesto together up to 24 hours ahead. Store it covered in the fridge. Add toppings like olives, mozzarella, and olive oil just before serving to keep everything fresh. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and used in sandwiches or stirred into pasta.

How to Serve Olives and Mozzarella over Whipped Pesto Ricotta

Spoon it onto a rustic wooden board, add some warm crostini on the side, and scatter a few extra basil leaves for that “wow” factor. Pair with a chilled glass of sparkling water with lemon or serve as part of a grazing board alongside nuts and roasted peppers.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t toss what’s left! Here’s how to keep it exciting:

• Sandwich Spread: Smear it inside a warm baguette with grilled veggies.
• Pasta Sauce: Thin it with a bit of pasta water for a quick creamy pesto pasta.
• Veggie Dip: Use it as a dip for raw carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers.

Additional Tips

• Store leftover pesto in an ice cube tray so you always have some on hand.
• Warm crostini right before serving so they’re toasty and crisp.
• Double the recipe if you’re hosting—it goes fast.

Make It a Showstopper

Use a shallow bowl or plate and create swoops in the whipped ricotta to catch the olive oil and pesto beautifully. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for color. Serve it with a mini spoon so guests can scoop easily.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper or a swirl of chili oil.
• Lemon-Herb Version: Mix lemon zest and thyme into the ricotta.
• Mediterranean Style: Add chopped roasted red peppers and a sprinkle of za’atar.
• Caprese Inspired: Swap olives for cherry tomatoes and balsamic drizzle.
• Nutty Finish: Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, just choose one with fresh ingredients and no artificial flavors for best results.

Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free ricotta and skip the mozzarella or use a plant-based version.

Q3: What can I serve this with besides crostini?

Crackers, pita chips, or even sliced cucumbers work great.

Q4: How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 2 days if stored in an airtight container.

Q5: Can I use different types of olives?

Absolutely. Mix and match your favorites.

Q6: Is this good for a picnic?

Yes, just keep it chilled until serving.

Q7: Can I freeze whipped ricotta?

It’s best fresh. Freezing may affect the texture.

Q8: Can I add garlic?

Sure! A tiny bit of fresh or roasted garlic can add extra depth.

Q9: Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just serve with gluten-free crackers or veggies.

Q10: Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add chili flakes or swirl in chili oil.

Conclusion

This Olives and Mozzarella over Whipped Pesto Ricotta is the kind of recipe that feels fancy but comes together in minutes. It’s a creamy, salty, herby masterpiece that steals the show every time. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to something special, trust me, this one’s a total game-changer. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked.

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