Ingredients:
- 15 ounces Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese (drained)
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese, softened
- 3 Tablespoons Honey (for base mix)
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Lemon Zest
- 1/4 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt
- Pinch of Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 1/3 cup Dried Apricots, finely diced
- 2 Tablespoons Honey (for topping)
- 1 Tablespoon Water or Orange Juice
- 1/3 cup Pistachios, shelled and coarsely chopped
- 1 Tablespoon Good quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Flaky Sea Salt (for finishing)
Instructions:
- If necessary, drain the ricotta in a sieve lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter over a bowl for at least 30 minutes. Pat dry gently.
- Whip the Base: Combine the drained ricotta, softened cream cheese, 3 Tbsp honey, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Process until completely smooth and creamy—about 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides.
- Toast the Pistachios: Briefly toast the chopped pistachios in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool completely.
- Simmer the Apricots: In a small saucepan, combine the diced apricots, 2 Tbsp honey, and water/juice. Warm gently over low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring until the apricots have plumped slightly and the mixture is syrupy. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Dip: Transfer the whipped ricotta mixture to your serving bowl.
- Layer and Garnish: Spoon the honeyed apricots evenly over the top of the ricotta. Sprinkle generously with the toasted pistachios.
- Finish: Drizzle the entire surface with the final tablespoon of good olive oil and finish with a delicate scattering of flaky sea salt. Serve immediately or chill for up to 4 hours.