Ricotta Salata is a type of Ricotta cheese from Italy that has been salted and pressed to create a firm texture. It is used in dishes such as lasagna, pizza, ravioli, and salads.
Ricotta Salata is made from the whey of cow, sheep, or goat milk. So, if you are looking for a Ricotta Salata substitute, you have come to the right place!
This article will discuss exactly what you can substitute for Ricotta Salata in your cooking.
Substitutes for Ricotta Salata:
- Feta Cheese
- Ricotta Infornata
- Mizithra
- Pecorino Romano
- Cotija
- Cottage Cheese
- Manouri
- Tofu
- Homemade Ricotta Salata
Feta Cheese
Feta cheese is a great alternative to Ricotta Salata. It has a similar texture and flavor but is lower in fat and calories.
This Greek cheese is made from sheep’s milk. It has a salty, tangy flavor, and it is perfect for crumbling over salads.
You can also use it in a variety of sweet and savory recipes. For example, you can use feta in any recipe that calls for Ricotta Salata.
Additionally, feta cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, and it contains no artificial flavors or preservatives.
Ricotta Infornata
Another variety of ricotta cheese, Ricotta Infornata, can be used as a substitute for Ricotta Salata. Ricotta Infornata is from Italy, and it is made from whey.
Although Ricotta Infornata has a similar texture and flavor to Ricotta Salata, it is lower in fat and calories.
It has a sweet, creamy flavor, and it is perfect for spreading on toast or using in recipes.
Ricotta Infornata works perfectly in any recipe that calls for Ricotta Salata.
When using Ricotta Infornata as a substitute, ensure that you use the same amount as Ricotta Salata.
Mizithra
Mizithra is another great alternative to Ricotta Salata. However, it is lower in fat and calories compared to Ricotta Salata.
Mizithra also has a similar texture and similar flavor to Ricotta Salata. It is a great source of calcium, and it is perfect for crumbling over salads or using in recipes.
It is made from sheep’s milk and has a low moisture content, making it easier to work with and less likely to cause clumping.
Mizithra is a Greek cheese that you can find in most grocery stores, and you can use it in a 1:1 ratio in place of Ricotta Salata.
When substituting Mizithra for Ricotta Salata, there is no need to make any other adjustments to the recipe.
Mizithra is quickly becoming a popular substitute for Ricotta Salata, thanks to its versatility.
Pecorino Romano
Pecorino Romano is another type of Ricotta cheese that can be used as a substitute for Ricotta Salata. Pecorino Romano is from Italy, and it is made from sheep’s milk.
Pecorino Romano has a similar texture and flavor to Ricotta Salata, but it is lower in fat and calories. It is packed with flavor, and it is perfect for grating over salads or using in recipes.
However, it has a stronger flavor, so it is best paired with dishes that need a little extra flavor.
When substituting Pecorino Romano for Ricotta Salata, use the same amount of Pecorino Romano as Ricotta Salata.
Cotija
Cotija is a Mexican cheese that can be used as a substitute for Ricotta Salata. Cotija is made from cow’s milk, and it has a similar texture to Ricotta Salata.
However, Cotija is drier, and it has a stronger flavor. Because of its dry quality, it is best to crumble Cotija over dishes rather than use it in recipes.
You can use Cotija in any recipe that has Ricotta Salata as an essential ingredient.
When substituting Cotija for Ricotta Salata, use the same amount of Cotija as Ricotta Salata.
You will find Cojita cheese in most grocery stores.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is another type of cheese that can be used as a substitute for Ricotta Salata. Cottage cheese is a dairy product that’s similar to Ricotta Salata in texture.
However, cottage cheese is lower in fat and calories. It also has a milder flavor, making it a good choice for those who do not like the strong flavor of Ricotta Salata.
You can use cottage cheese in various recipes, such as lasagna or stuffed shells. When substituting cottage cheese for Ricotta Salata, use the same amount of cottage cheese as Ricotta Salata.
Additionally, cottage cheese is rich in protein, making it a healthy choice for Ricotta Salata.
Manouri
Manouri is a great substitute for Ricotta Salata. This Greek cheese has a creamy texture and can be used in a 1-to-1 ratio.
Manouri is a great alternative to Ricotta Salata because it works in any recipe. It is less salty than Ricotta Salata but has a higher fat content.
If you are looking for a Ricotta Salata substitute that is lower in fat, Manouri is not the best choice.
You can find Manouri in most grocery stores, and it can be used as a Ricotta Salata substitute in any recipe.
Manouri is also less expensive than Ricotta Salata, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Tofu
Though a non-dairy product, Tofu can be used as a Ricotta Salata substitute. Though tofu is made from soybeans, it has a similar texture to Ricotta Salata.
Tofu is high in protein and low in fat and calories, making it a fantastic source of nutrition.
Furthermore, because tofu is bland, it will absorb the flavors of the dish you are making.
You can use tofu in recipes such as lasagna, stuffed shells, and even desserts. When substituting tofu for Ricotta Salata, use the same amount of tofu as Ricotta Salata.
Homemade Ricotta Salata
Homemade Ricotta Salata is a great alternative to store-bought Ricotta Salata.
Best of all, it’s easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.
Here is a simple recipe for homemade Ricotta Salata:
Ingredients:
- -1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- -½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- -½ teaspoon of salt
- -¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Combine Ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix well and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Next, line a colander with cheesecloth and place it over a bowl. Pour the Ricotta mixture into the colander and let it drain for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, transfer the Ricotta to a clean bowl and refrigerate for another hour.
Note that Ricotta Salata can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. When using Homemade Ricotta Salata as a substitute for Ricotta Salata, use a 1:1 ratio.
FAQ
What is Ricotta Salata?
Ricotta Salata is a type of Ricotta cheese that is made from sheep’s milk. It has a salty, sharp flavor and a firm texture. Ricotta Salata is used in dishes such as lasagna, pasta dishes, and pizzas.
What is the difference between Ricotta and Ricotta Salata?
Ricotta Salata is a type of Ricotta cheese that is made from sheep’s milk. Ricotta cheese is made from cow, buffalo, or goat milk. Ricotta Salata has a salty, sharp flavor and a firm texture. Ricotta cheese is often used in desserts, while Ricotta Salata is most commonly used in savory dishes.
Conclusion
Ricotta Salata is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, we know how difficult it can be to find Ricotta Salata in stores. So, if you cannot find Ricotta Salata, don’t worry! As you can see from this list, plenty of substitutes will work just as well.
Do you have a favorite Ricotta Salata substitute? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to check out our other blog posts for more substitution tips and tricks. Thanks for reading!