Baked Fresh Cheese With Lemon and Herbs
Makes 1 cup.
Note: This recipe works beautifully with ricotta, fresh chèvre or a mixture of both. Serve it warm with bruschetta or crackers, or allow to cool, invert onto a plate and surround with crostini. It will store for up to three days, covered and refrigerated. If it's a little too moist or watery, drain the ricotta in a cheesecloth-lined sieve for about 10 minutes. From Beth Dooley.
• 1 c. ricotta or fresh chèvre, or combination of the two (see Note)
• 2 scant tbsp. chopped thyme
• 1 tbsp. lemon zest
• 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice, or to taste
• Generous pinch red pepper flakes, to taste
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil, optional
Directions
Preheat oven to 370 degrees. Lightly grease an ovenproof 2-cup ramekin or baking dish.
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh cheese, thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Place in a ramekin or baking dish. Bake until firm and golden brown, about 15 to 25 minutes. Remove and drizzle with the oil and serve warm. Or, allow to cool, invert onto a plate, and serve sliced.
Nutrition information per 2 tablespoons:
Calories55Fat4 gSodium30 mg
Carbohydrates1 gSaturated fat3 gTotal sugars1 g
Protein4 gCholesterol15 mgDietary fiber0 g
Exchanges per serving: ½ high-fat protein.