Why Make This Recipe

A Greek mezze platter with whipped ricotta is perfect for gatherings, parties, or casual get-togethers. It’s colorful, easy to prepare, and offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. This dish allows guests to nibble on a variety of delicious bites, making it a fun and interactive dining experience. Plus, with fresh ingredients and simple preparation, you can create a Mediterranean feast that impresses everyone.

How to Make Greek Mezze Platter with Whipped Ricotta

Ingredients

1 cup ricotta cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup hummus
1/2 cup tzatziki
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cucumber, sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts
1/4 cup roasted red peppers
Pita bread or flatbread for serving
Fresh oregano or parsley for garnish

Directions

In a bowl, whip the ricotta cheese with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Arrange the hummus, tzatziki, and whipped ricotta in separate bowls or sections on a large platter.
Surround the dips with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives, red onion, feta cheese, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Warm the pita bread and cut it into triangles for dipping.
Garnish the platter with fresh oregano or parsley and drizzle with olive oil just before serving.

How to Serve Greek Mezze Platter with Whipped Ricotta

Serve the Greek mezze platter as an appetizer or snack. Encourage guests to scoop, dip, and combine the different components to create their own flavor combinations. It’s best to serve it alongside a refreshing drink, like sparkling water or a light wine, to complement the vibrant flavors of the platter.

How to Store Greek Mezze Platter with Whipped Ricotta

If you have leftovers, store the dips and individual ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The whipped ricotta and other dips should be consumed within a few days for the best flavor. Keep the pita or flatbread in a separate bag to maintain its freshness.

Tips to Make Greek Mezze Platter with Whipped Ricotta

For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like basil or dill to the whipped ricotta.
You can prepare each component ahead of time to save effort before your event. Just assemble the platter right before serving.
Use a variety of colorful vegetables to make the platter visually appealing.

Variation

You can customize the platter with other Mediterranean ingredients like baba ganoush, roasted eggplant, or different types of olives. Feel free to add grilled meats like chicken or lamb to make it heartier.

FAQs

1. Can I make the whipped ricotta in advance?

Yes, you can make the whipped ricotta a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

2. What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cream cheese or mascarpone as an alternative to ricotta, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

The original recipe includes dairy-based ingredients like ricotta and feta cheese, so it is not vegan. However, you can use vegan cheese alternatives and plant-based dips to create a vegan-friendly version.