Ingredients:
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup cooked ham
– 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Cook the ham until it is browned and crispy, and then chop it into small pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, dried basil, and dried thyme. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Add the chopped ham to the mixing bowl and stir everything together. Make sure that the ham is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to add too much salt, as the ham is already quite salty.
5. Transfer the mixture into a small mold or ramekin. Smooth the top of the mixture with a spoon or spatula.
6. Cover the mold with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight.
7. When you are ready to serve the pate, remove it from the mold and transfer it to a plate. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon zest, if desired.
8. Serve the pate with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables. You can also add some olives or pickles on the side to further enhance the flavors.
This ricotta and cooked ham pate recipe is a great alternative to traditional meat pates. It is lighter and fresher, without sacrificing any of the flavor. It is also very easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, which is always a plus when entertaining.
If you want to experiment with different flavors, you can add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, or fresh herbs to the mixture. You can also try using different types of cheeses, such as goat cheese or feta cheese, instead of the ricotta.
Overall, this recipe is a must-try for any food lover who appreciates the simplicity and deliciousness of Italian-inspired cuisine. It offers the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and meaty flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.