Ricotta and herb fritters

Ricotta and herb fritters combine creamy ricotta with fresh basil and parsley, resulting in a light, savory dish. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal, they are simple to prepare and cook in just a few minutes.

23 Dec 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

2 cups ricotta cheese
1/2 cup basil leaves
1/2 bunch fresh parsley
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/3 cup self-raising flour
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk (1% fat)

Ricotta and herb fritters are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the fresh flavors of basil and parsley. These fritters make for an excellent appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal. Perfectly paired with a simple salad or a dipping sauce, these fritters are sure to impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Herbs:
- Wash and finely chop the basil leaves and fresh parsley.

2. Mix the Ricotta Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped basil, and parsley. Mix well until evenly combined.

3. Prepare the Batter:
- Add the self-raising flour to the ricotta mixture. Stir gently to incorporate the flour fully.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients:
- Crack the eggs into a small bowl and beat them lightly with a fork.
- Gradually add the beaten eggs and milk to the ricotta mixture, stirring until the batter is smooth and well combined.

5. Rest the Batter:
- Allow the batter to rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the flour to fully absorb the liquid, ensuring an even texture.

6. Heat the Pan:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to coat the surface.

7. Cook the Fritters:
- Once the pan is hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the skillet, forming small fritters.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fritters are golden brown and cooked through.

8. Serve:
- Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra herbs if desired.

Ricotta and herb fritters are a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various settings. Whether you're hosting a brunch, looking for a quick snack, or need a light meal option, these fritters are a great choice. Serve them warm and enjoy the delicate balance of flavors and textures. Happy cooking!

Ricotta and herb fritters FAQ:

What is the best way to ensure my fritters are cooked through?

To ensure your fritters are cooked through, make sure to cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side over medium heat until they are golden brown. You can also check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean without wet batter.

Can I use different herbs for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute basil and parsley with other herbs such as chives, dill, or cilantro. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the fritters may vary with different herb choices.

How should I store leftover fritters?

Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven to retain their crispiness.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of self-raising flour for this recipe?

You can use whole wheat flour, but you'll need to add a leavening agent, such as baking powder, to achieve similar fluffiness as self-raising flour. Use about 1 teaspoon of baking powder for every cup of whole wheat flour.

What type of ricotta is best for fritters?

For the best texture and flavor in fritters, use whole milk ricotta. It has a creamier consistency compared to part-skim or low-fat ricotta, which can lead to drier fritters.

Cooking Tips:

- Make sure to drain excess moisture from the ricotta cheese to prevent the batter from becoming too wet.

- Finely chop the basil leaves and parsley to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the fritters.

- Allow the batter to rest for a few minutes before cooking to let the self-raising flour activate, which will make the fritters fluffier.

- Use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned skillet to cook the fritters for an even, golden-brown finish.

- Adjust the heat as needed to prevent the fritters from burning before the inside is fully cooked.

- Serve the fritters with a light dipping sauce, such as marinara or a lemon herb yogurt, to complement the fresh herb flavors.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 280kcal
Protein 20g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 0.61g
Sugar 1.99g
Fat 14g

Ricotta and herb fritters