As the sun shines bright and the days grow longer, there’s nothing quite like digging into a vibrant Summer Salad with Herbed Ricotta to celebrate the season’s bounty. I love the way the warm summer breeze mixes with the fresh aromas wafting from my kitchen, where crunchy greens and sweet cherry tomatoes are brought together with a creamy, herb-infused ricotta. This dish is my go-to for those busy evenings when I crave something quick yet satisfying—requiring less than 20 minutes to prepare!
Not only is it visually stunning, with its rich colors and textures, but this salad also offers a customizable option that caters to any taste—vegan friends included! Imagine sitting on your patio, savoring each refreshing bite, while the satisfying blend of savory herbs and zesty lemon brighten your day. Let’s dive in and elevate your summer meals with this delightful, easy-to-make recipe!
Why is this Summer Salad With Herbed Ricotta Recipe special?
Quick and Easy: Get this refreshing salad on your table in under 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Customizable: Enjoy the flexibility to swap ingredients, making it a vegan delight or tailored to your preferences.
Flavorful and Fresh: A delightful fusion of herbed ricotta, juicy tomatoes, and crisp greens elevates your summer dining!
Nutritious Choice: Packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables and protein to keep you energized.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress at gatherings, offering a gourmet touch without the fuss.
Summer Salad With Herbed Ricotta Ingredients
• Create this delightful summer salad with fresh and vibrant ingredients!
For the Herbed Ricotta
- Ricotta Cheese – Provides creaminess and richness; for a vegan option, substitute with cashew-based dairy-free cheese.
- Fresh Basil – Adds a fragrant herbal note; can be swapped with basil pesto if fresh basil is not available.
- Fresh Parsley – Offers a mild, earthy flavor; feel free to use cilantro for a different taste.
- Lemon Zest – Brightens the dish with citrus aroma; fresh lemon juice can enhance the acidity.
For the Salad
- Cherry Tomatoes – Delivers sweetness and juiciness; heirloom or vine-ripe tomatoes can enhance the flavor depth.
- Cucumber – Adds a refreshing crunch; consider using English cucumbers for the best texture or pickled cucumbers for a tangy twist.
- Red Onion – Contributes sharpness and color; green onions are a great replacement for a milder taste.
- Mixed Greens/Arugula – Forms the robust base of your salad; mix with butter lettuce or spinach for variety.
For the Dressing
- Olive Oil – Enhances richness; opt for extra virgin for added flavor, or use avocado oil as a substitute.
- Red Wine Vinegar – Provides acidity and brightness; apple cider vinegar is a fine alternative.
- Dijon Mustard – Offers a subtle tang; stone-ground mustard can add a coarser texture.
Now that you have gathered all the essential ingredients for your Summer Salad With Herbed Ricotta Recipe, let’s move on to the fun part—preparing this stress-free, delightful dish!
How to Make Summer Salad With Herbed Ricotta
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Mix the Ricotta: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, fresh basil, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well-blended; set aside while you prepare the rest of the salad.
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Prepare the Veggies: In a large bowl, toss together the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced cucumber, and red onion. This colorful mixture will bring a burst of flavor and texture to your dish.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well-combined. The dressing should be smooth and slightly tangy.
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Combine Vegetables and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the vegetable mix. Toss everything together gently until the veggies are evenly coated with that vibrant dressing.
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Assemble the Salad: On a serving plate, lay down a bed of mixed greens or arugula. Top with the dressed vegetables for a stunning presentation.
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Add the Herbed Ricotta: Spoon the herbed ricotta generously over the salad. It can be served immediately or chilled slightly for a refreshing twist.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an added pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Summer Salad With Herbed Ricotta
Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To preserve freshness, keep the herbed ricotta and dressing separate from the greens until ready to serve.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of the fresh vegetables and ricotta may change. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience!
Reheating: If you’ve added protein like grilled chicken or shrimp, reheat them gently in a microwave before adding to the salad, but avoid reheating the salad itself to prevent wilting and loss of texture.
Serving Suggestion: For best flavor, consume the salad cold, allowing the herbed ricotta to remain creamy and the veggies crisp.
What to Serve with Summer Salad with Herbed Ricotta?
Create a delightful meal that complements the vibrant flavors and textures of your summer salad!
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy ricotta and dressing, it adds a satisfying crunch to balance the salad’s freshness.
- Grilled Chicken: A juicy protein addition that elevates the dish. Simply seasoned, it harmonizes beautifully with the herbed flavors.
- Roasted Veggies: Adding a warm, caramelized element brings depth, making each bite deliciously complex and hearty.
- Quinoa: This nutty supergrain is a fantastic base for any meal. Its earthy flavor couples well with the bright ingredients of the salad.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink to cleanse your palate while enjoying the rich herbed ricotta, enhancing the citrus notes in your meal.
- Fruity Sorbet: As a light dessert, it pairs wonderfully after your salad, offering a chilled, sweet contrast that keeps your meal refreshing and summery.
- Avocado Toast: For a fun twist! The creaminess of the avocado complements the ricotta while adding healthy fats and a toastable crunch.
- Mixed Nuts: For a casual accompaniment, serve a bowl of spiced mixed nuts. They add a delightful salty crunch alongside the salad’s freshness.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors of your summer salad, making every sip a celebration of seasonal delights.
Helpful Tricks for Summer Salad With Herbed Ricotta
- Herbed Ricotta Chill: For extra flavor, chill the herbed ricotta for at least 30 minutes before serving. It truly enhances the taste in this Summer Salad With Herbed Ricotta.
- Uniform Veggie Cuts: Slice your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and presentation. Irregular cuts can lead to uneven textures in your delightful salad.
- Freshness Matters: Use the freshest ingredients available, especially for herbs and vegetables. Wilted greens or overripe tomatoes can diminish the dish’s vibrant appeal.
- Dressing Timing: Dress your salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and the flavors lively. This prevents sogginess while maintaining that refreshing crunch!
- Taste as You Go: Season your ricotta and dressing to your preference. A little extra salt or lemon can brighten the flavors and elevate your Summer Salad With Herbed Ricotta.
Make Ahead Options
These Summer Salad with Herbed Ricotta recipe components are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the herbed ricotta up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ricotta cheese with fresh herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper, and refrigerate in an airtight container. For the salad, chop your veggies (cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion) up to 3 days ahead, storing them in the fridge to maintain their crispness. However, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent wilting. When it’s time to enjoy, simply combine everything on a plate and spoon the herbed ricotta over the top for a quick, refreshing meal that tastes just as delicious!
Summer Salad With Herbed Ricotta Variations
Get creative and make this salad uniquely yours with delightful ingredient twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Vegan Delight: Swap ricotta with cashew cream or store-bought vegan cheese. You won’t even miss the dairy!
- Protein-Packed: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or marinated tofu for a satisfying boost. It transforms this light dish into a hearty meal.
- Nuts & Seeds: Add a handful of toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture that offers delightful nutty notes.
- Mediterranean Flair: Mix in olives, feta cheese, or roasted red peppers for a robust, Mediterranean flavor explosion. Each bite will transport you to sun-soaked shores.
- Herbal Variations: Experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme to create unique flavor profiles. Fresh or dried options can bring a new dimension to your salad.
- Fruity Twist: Toss in slices of ripe avocado or even diced mango for a sweet contrast that complements the savory elements beautifully.
- Heat It Up: Spice things up with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for those who crave a little heat in their salads. It adds excitement to every bite!
- Crispy Toppings: Drizzle with a few crispy fried onions or croutons for additional texture that creates an irresistible crunch. Perfectly pairs with the creamy ricotta!
Summer Salad With Herbed Ricotta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! Look for cherry tomatoes that are plump and firm, with a vibrant color. Avoid any that have dark spots or feel overly soft, as they may indicate overripeness. Local farmers’ markets often have the best options, so keep an eye out for bright, fragrant varieties there!
What is the best way to store leftover salad?
Very! The best method is to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To maintain the freshness of the salad, it’s critical to keep the herbed ricotta and dressing separate from the greens. This prevents wilting and keeps the salad crispy.
Can I freeze the Summer Salad with Herbed Ricotta?
Not recommended! Freezing this salad is a no-go, as the fresh vegetables and ricotta lose their texture and flavor when thawed. Instead, enjoy it fresh for the best experience.
What if my ricotta is too watery?
If you find your ricotta is too watery, simply strain it through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve for about 30 minutes to remove excess liquid. You can also mix in a tad bit of Greek yogurt or even a spoonful of cream cheese for a thicker consistency, perfect for spreading on your salad!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This Summer Salad with Herbed Ricotta is naturally gluten-free, just ensure you’re choosing gluten-free dressings or any alternative ingredients you might add, like croutons. Always check labels to be sure!
Is this salad suitable for pets?
Not for pets! While the salad is made with many wholesome ingredients, some components like onions are toxic to dogs and cats. Always keep your furry friends in mind when preparing meals, and stick to pet-friendly treats for them!
Summer Salad with Herbed Ricotta Recipe for Quick Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, fresh basil, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well-blended; set aside while you prepare the rest of the salad.
- In a large bowl, toss together the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced cucumber, and red onion. This colorful mixture will bring a burst of flavor and texture to your dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well-combined. The dressing should be smooth and slightly tangy.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mix. Toss everything together gently until the veggies are evenly coated with that vibrant dressing.
- On a serving plate, lay down a bed of mixed greens or arugula. Top with the dressed vegetables for a stunning presentation.
- Spoon the herbed ricotta generously over the salad. It can be served immediately or chilled slightly for a refreshing twist.