She Strengthens

Effortless Entertaining: A Simple yet Impressive Appetizer

When it comes to hosting a gathering, having a few reliable and easy-to-execute recipes up your sleeve can make all the difference. One such recipe is baked ricotta with cheese and herbs, a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to impress.

The Star of the Show: High-Quality Ricotta

The key to this recipe’s success lies in the quality of the ricotta cheese. Using good-quality or homemade ricotta will result in a richer, creamier flavor and a smoother texture. Don’t skimp on this essential ingredient – it’s worth the investment.

A Flavorful Combination

This recipe brings together the tangy creaminess of ricotta, the salty bite of Pecorino Romano, and the brightness of fresh oregano. The result is a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.

A Quick and Easy Recipe

This recipe is a cinch to prepare, requiring only 10 minutes of active cooking time and a total of 40 minutes from start to finish. Simply mix the ingredients together, transfer to a baking dish, and let the oven do the rest.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole-milk ricotta cheese (about 16 ounces)
• 1/2 cup loosely packed Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh oregano leaves
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for coating the baking dish
• Crostini or toasted bread, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare
   Heat the oven to 300°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Lightly coat a 2-cup baking dish with olive oil; set aside.
2. Combine Ingredients
   Place ricotta, 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of the Pecorino Romano, and the oregano in a medium bowl and stir to combine. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Transfer and Top
   Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish, sprinkle with the remaining 2 tablespoons Pecorino Romano, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake and Serve
   Bake until heated through and the Pecorino Romano on top is melted, about 30 minutes. Serve warm with toasted bread or crostini.

With this effortless recipe, you’ll be well on your way to hosting a memorable gathering that will leave your guests raving. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the accolades!