Description
This Vegan Ricotta is a creamy, fluffy, and ultra-versatile dairy-free cheese alternative made from raw slivered almonds, fresh lemon juice, and simple seasonings. Perfect for use in vegan lasagna, stuffed shells, pizza, or as a snack spread, it’s easy to whip up in just 10 minutes using a high-powered blender.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegan Ricotta
- 2 cups raw slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4-1 1/2 cups water
Instructions
- Quick soak the almonds: Bring a few cups of water to a boil using a tea kettle or pot. Place the almonds into a measuring cup or bowl and pour the boiling water over them to cover. Let them soak for 5 minutes to soften, or up to an hour if time allows.
- Blend: Drain the soaking water from the almonds and discard it. Add the softened almonds, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and 3/4 cup of water to a high-powered blender such as a Vitamix. Blend until the mixture is very smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. If needed, add up to another 3/4 cup of water and blend again until the ricotta becomes silky-smooth and fluffy.
- Optional herbs: For extra flavor, add a teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil, or a handful of fresh basil leaves to the blender and pulse until combined.
- Use and enjoy: Your vegan ricotta is now ready to be used in recipes like vegan lasagna, stuffed shells, or dolloped on pizza before baking. It also works wonderfully as a creamy spread for snacking.
Notes
- This recipe makes a smooth and creamy vegan ricotta that’s perfect for replacing traditional ricotta cheese in a variety of dishes.
- The quick soak softens the almonds to make blending easier and results in a creamier texture.
- You can adjust the water quantity to make your ricotta thicker or thinner depending on the dish.
- If you want a more herbaceous flavor, fresh herbs are preferred but dried herbs work well too.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 of 8 servings
- Calories: 157 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 219 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
