Name: Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 oz cream cheese; 2 tbsp honey; 2 tsp lemon zest; 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice; 1 tsp vanilla; 1½ cups whole milk ricotta cheese; 3 tbsp strawberry jam; 4 cups mixed fresh berries; 2 tbsp pistachios; mint leaves

This delightful summer dessert is a fusion of creamy ricotta cheese and fresh, juicy summer berries. The berries' natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the ricotta's light and creamy texture, while the strawberry jam adds a touch of richness. Pistachios and mint provide the final touches, giving the dessert some crunch and a refreshing hint of mint. This is a perfect, easy-to-make dessert to cap off any meal or to enjoy as a refreshing snack on a hot summer day.

Photos of Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry items, but there are a few that you might need to get. Whole milk ricotta cheese can be found in the cheese aisle, and it's essential to have the full-fat version for a creamy texture. Fresh berries are a must for this recipe. Opt for a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. If you can’t find fresh berries, frozen ones can work in a pinch. Lastly, don’t forget to pick up some pistachios. They can be found in the nuts section and provide a delightful crunch.

Ingredients for Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits

Cream cheese: Cream cheese is used to add a creamy and slightly tangy flavor to the parfaits.

Honey: Honey is used to sweeten the cream cheese and ricotta mixture.

Lemon zest and juice: Lemon zest and juice add a tangy and refreshing flavor, which balances out the sweetness.

Vanilla: Vanilla enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.

Whole milk ricotta cheese: Ricotta is a creamy and slightly sweet cheese that forms the base of the parfaits.

Strawberry jam: Strawberry jam is used to give the berries a shiny coating and add a touch of sweetness.

Fresh berries: A mix of fresh berries adds a natural sweetness and tartness to the parfaits.

Pistachios: Pistachios add a delightful crunch and a touch of saltiness to balance the sweetness.

Mint leaves: Mint leaves are used to garnish the parfaits and provide a refreshing flavor.

One reader, Gwyneth Gruber says:

This ricotta and summer berry parfaits recipe is a delightful treat! The creamy ricotta perfectly complements the sweet and tangy berries. The hint of lemon and honey adds a refreshing touch. It's a simple yet elegant dessert that's perfect for summer gatherings. Highly recommended!

Gwyneth Gruber

Key Techniques for Making Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits

How to prepare the ricotta mixture: Combine cream cheese, honey, lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and vanilla in a mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer for 1 to 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Then, beat in the ricotta until smooth.

How to strain the jam: Push the strawberry jam through a fine mesh strainer into a small mixing bowl to remove any tiny seeds. Add the remaining lemon juice to the strained jam and mix until smooth.

How to assemble the parfaits: Layer 1 to 2 tablespoons of the berries and 2 to 3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture into four dessert glasses or bowls. Repeat the layers, ending with berries on top. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios and garnish with mint leaves.

How to store the parfaits: The fruit and ricotta can be layered into dishes and refrigerated for up to a day. Sprinkle with pistachios and mint just before serving.

How To Make Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits

These berry parfaits are easy yet impressive desserts made with fresh fruits layered with ricotta cream. Serve with pistachios and mint leaves for garnish.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4ozcream cheese,cut into chunks and softened to room temperature
2tbsphoney
2tsplemon zest,finely grated
2tbspfresh lemon juice
1tspvanilla
1½cupswhole milk ricotta cheese,(12 oz)
3tbspstrawberry jam
4cupsmixed fresh berries,such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and sliced strawberries
2tbsppistachios,chopped for garnish
mint leaves,for garnish

Instructions

Combine the cream cheese, honey, lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice and vanilla in a mixing bowl, and beat with an electric mixer for 1 to 2 minutes on medium speed, until light and fluffy. Beat in the ricotta until smooth.
Use a spatula to push the jam through a fine mesh strainer into a small mixing bowl; this will remove any tiny seeds in the jam.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice to the strained jam and mix until smooth. Add the berries and stir to coat them.
Assemble the parfaits: Into four dessert glasses or bowls, layer 1 to 2 tablespoons of the berries and 2 to 3 tablespoons ricotta mixture.
Repeat, ending with berries on top. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios, and garnish with mint leaves.
The fruit and ricotta can be layered into dishes and refrigerated for up to a day. Sprinkle with pistachios and mint until just before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 443.53kcal
Fat: 24.04g
Saturated Fat: 13.44g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.81g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.51g
Carbohydrates: 46.28g
Fiber: 4.26g
Sugar: 32.46g
Protein: 14.16g
Cholesterol: 78.61mg
Sodium: 188.56mg
Calcium: 238.75mg
Potassium: 318.15mg
Iron: 1.16mg
Vitamin A: 220.64µg
Vitamin C: 20.18mg

Helpful Technique for Assembling Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits

When assembling your ricotta and summer berry parfaits, it's important to layer the ingredients carefully. Start with a layer of the berry mixture at the bottom of your glass or bowl, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used up. This not only creates a visually appealing dessert, but also ensures that each spoonful contains a balanced mix of berries and ricotta. For an added touch, you can use a spoon to create swirls in the layers, giving your parfaits a more artistic look.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Summer Berry Parfait Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the cream cheese and ricotta mixture the day before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day you plan to serve the parfaits.

Use store-bought jam: Opt for store-bought strawberry jam instead of making it from scratch. This will cut down on preparation time without compromising flavor.

Organize ingredients: Before starting the recipe, organize all the ingredients and equipment needed. This will help streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.

Quick assembly: When assembling the parfaits, use a piping bag to layer the ricotta mixture and berries. This will create neat layers and save time compared to spooning the ingredients.

Chill glasses: Place the dessert glasses in the refrigerator before assembling the parfaits. Chilled glasses will help keep the ingredients fresh and can enhance the presentation.

Substitute Ingredients For Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits Recipe

ricotta cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt has a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor that can work well in parfaits.
cream cheese - Substitute with mascarpone: Mascarpone has a rich and creamy texture similar to cream cheese, and it adds a slightly sweet flavor to the parfaits.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that can provide a similar creamy consistency to the parfaits.
strawberry jam - Substitute with raspberry preserves: Raspberry preserves offer a similar sweet and fruity flavor that complements the berries in the parfaits.
mixed fresh berries - Substitute with sliced peaches and blueberries: Peaches and blueberries can provide a different but equally delicious combination of flavors and textures for the parfaits.
pistachios - Substitute with sliced almonds: Sliced almonds can add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor similar to pistachios in the parfaits.

Presentation Ideas for Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits

Elevate the layers: Create a visually stunning presentation by layering the ricotta mixture and berries in a clear glass, showcasing the vibrant colors and textures.
Garnish with precision: Add a touch of elegance by delicately sprinkling crushed pistachios on top of the parfait, ensuring even distribution and a refined finish.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the berries and ricotta mixture in a symmetrical pattern within the serving glass, creating a balanced and visually appealing display.
Highlight the freshness of the berries: Select the finest, ripest berries and strategically place them on top of the parfait to showcase their natural beauty and vibrant colors.
Incorporate mint leaves artistically: Place fresh mint leaves on top of the parfait in a decorative manner, adding a pop of green and a hint of herbal fragrance to the presentation.
Use transparent glassware: Opt for clear, elegant glassware to showcase the beautiful layers of the parfait, allowing the vibrant colors to shine through and impress the judges.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Summer Berry Parfaits

Electric mixer: An electric mixer is a kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients. It is equipped with beaters or a whisk attachment to efficiently combine and aerate various mixtures.
Fine mesh strainer: A fine mesh strainer is a kitchen tool with a fine, closely woven mesh designed to strain out small particles from liquids or sift dry ingredients. It is commonly used to remove seeds or lumps from sauces and to sift flour or powdered sugar.
Spatula: A spatula is a flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, and spreading foods during cooking and baking. It is essential for tasks such as folding ingredients together and scraping the sides of bowls.
Dessert glasses or bowls: Dessert glasses or bowls are serving vessels used to present and serve desserts. They come in various shapes and sizes, providing an elegant way to showcase layered or individual desserts.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits

The ricotta and summer berry parfaits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it's best to consume them within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture.
To store, cover each parfait glass or bowl tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent the ricotta mixture from absorbing any odors from the refrigerator.
If you want to prepare the components ahead of time, you can store the ricotta mixture and macerated berries separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
When ready to serve, assemble the parfaits by layering the ricotta mixture and berries in glasses or bowls, and garnish with chopped pistachios and mint leaves.
It's not recommended to freeze the assembled ricotta and summer berry parfaits, as the texture of the ricotta mixture may become grainy and the berries will lose their fresh texture and flavor.
However, you can freeze the ricotta mixture on its own for up to 1 month. To freeze, transfer the mixture to an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
To thaw the frozen ricotta mixture, place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 6-8 hours. Once thawed, give it a good stir to restore its creamy consistency before using it in the parfaits.

Interesting Trivia About Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits

The ricotta and summer berry parfaits recipe is a delightful combination of creamy ricotta, sweet berries, and a hint of lemon. This dessert is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, while ricotta provides a good source of protein and calcium. The addition of pistachios offers a satisfying crunch and a dose of healthy fats. This parfait is a perfect way to indulge in a sweet treat while still nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.

Budget-Friendly: Making Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits at Home

This ricotta and summer berry parfaits recipe is fairly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as ricotta cheese, fresh berries, and pistachios, are generally affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The use of seasonal berries can also help reduce costs. Considering the overall quality, taste, and nutritional value, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly dessert option.

Is This Summer Berry Parfait Recipe Healthy or Not?

This ricotta and summer berry parfait recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. While it does contain some nutritious ingredients like fresh berries and pistachios, there are a few elements that could be adjusted to make it a healthier treat.

The recipe includes cream cheese, whole milk ricotta, and honey, which contribute to its creamy texture and sweet taste. However, these ingredients also add saturated fat and sugar to the dish. The jam, although strained, is another source of added sugar.

On the positive side, the fresh berries provide a good amount of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The pistachios offer healthy fats, protein, and minerals. The lemon juice and zest add a bright, tangy flavor while providing some vitamin C.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the cream cheese for a reduced-fat or fat-free version to lower the saturated fat content
Use part-skim ricotta instead of whole milk ricotta to reduce the overall fat and calorie count
Reduce the amount of honey used, or replace it with a natural, low-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract
Opt for a low-sugar or sugar-free jam to minimize added sugars
Increase the proportion of berries to ricotta mixture, as berries are nutrient-dense and lower in calories
Add a layer of whole grain granola or oats for extra fiber and a satisfying crunch
Experiment with different types of nuts or seeds, such as almonds or chia seeds, for variety and additional nutritional benefits

By making these adjustments, you can create a healthier version of this ricotta and summer berry parfait that still tastes indulgent and satisfying. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying a treat like this occasionally can be part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

Editor's Opinion on Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits

This ricotta and summer berry parfait recipe is a delightful blend of creamy ricotta, tangy lemon, and sweet berries. The combination of flavors and textures creates a refreshing and indulgent dessert. The addition of pistachios adds a delightful crunch, while the mint leaves provide a fresh and aromatic finish. The recipe's simplicity allows for easy preparation, making it a perfect choice for entertaining or a special treat at home. The balance of sweetness and tartness in the berries, combined with the creamy ricotta mixture, makes this parfait a delightful and visually appealing dessert option.

Enhance Your Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinated and grilled skewers of colorful vegetables, perfect for a light and refreshing side dish.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken: Tender chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction, a delicious protein-packed addition to your meal.

Mango Salsa: A vibrant and tropical salsa made with fresh mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice, adding a burst of flavor to your dish.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like Summer Berry Parfaits

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a zesty herb dressing before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Braised Beef Stew: Slow cook tender beef with hearty vegetables and savory broth for a comforting and filling stew.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: Blend ripe mangoes with creamy coconut milk and a touch of honey, then freeze into refreshing popsicles for a tropical treat.

Butternut Squash Soup: Roast butternut squash until caramelized, then blend with warm spices and creamy coconut milk for a comforting and flavorful soup.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: Marinate chicken in a zesty lemon garlic mixture, then roast until golden and juicy for a flavorful and satisfying main dish.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Complement Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. The combination of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs creates a rich and flavorful filling that pairs perfectly with the earthy mushrooms. These bite-sized appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Caprese Skewers: For a fresh and vibrant appetizer, look no further than these colorful caprese skewers. The juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil are drizzled with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite. These skewers are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them a great addition to any party spread.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Grilled salmon with a tangy citrus glaze, served with a side of roasted vegetables and quinoa. The salmon is perfectly cooked with a crispy skin and flaky, tender flesh, while the glaze adds a burst of flavor. The roasted vegetables and quinoa provide a satisfying and nutritious accompaniment to the dish.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground turkey, quinoa, and a variety of vegetables, topped with melted cheese. The peppers are tender and flavorful, while the filling is hearty and satisfying. This dish is a perfect balance of protein, grains, and vegetables, making it a wholesome and delicious main course.

Why trust this Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful balance of creamy ricotta and vibrant summer berries, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The use of honey and strawberry jam provides natural sweetness, while the addition of pistachios offers a satisfying crunch. The incorporation of lemon zest and fresh mint lends a refreshing and aromatic touch. With the combination of high-quality ingredients such as whole milk ricotta cheese and fresh mixed berries, this recipe promises a delightful and indulgent treat that users can trust for a delightful dessert experience.

Share your thoughts on the delightful Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section. Join the discussion and let us know if you have any creative twists or variations to this classic summertime treat!

FAQ:

What type of berries can I use for this recipe?

You can use a variety of berries such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference and what's in season.

Can I use low-fat or fat-free ricotta cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free ricotta cheese if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly from using whole milk ricotta.

Can I prepare the parfaits in advance?

Absolutely! You can layer the fruit and ricotta in the dishes and refrigerate them for up to a day. Just remember to sprinkle with pistachios and garnish with mint right before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch.

Can I substitute the pistachios with a different nut?

Of course! If you're not a fan of pistachios, you can easily swap them out for chopped almonds, pecans, or even granola for added crunch and texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

While this recipe uses dairy products, you can certainly make a vegan version by using dairy-free cream cheese and ricotta, as well as a plant-based sweetener like agave or maple syrup. Just ensure the flavors and textures complement each other for a delightful vegan treat.