What Is Ricotta Salata Cheese? — Origin, Uses & More

As you might already know, ricotta cheeses are of several types, including ricotta forte, salata, and infornata. 

Of the three mentioned, ricotta salata cheese is unique for its mild, nutty, and slightly salty flavor. But what exactly is ricotta salata?

This article provides a comprehensive overview of ricotta salata cheese, its nutritional profile, and how to incorporate it into your meals.

What is ricotta salata?

Ricotta salata cheese, which translates to “salted ricotta” in Italian, is a variation of the traditional fresh ricotta cheese. 

Unlike regular ricotta, which is soft and creamy, ricotta salata undergoes an additional process that transforms it into a firm, rindless cheese with a crumbly texture. This makes it ideal for grating or slicing.

Where did ricotta salata originate from?

Ricotta salata originates from Italy, specifically from the island of Sicily. It has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, particularly in regions where shepherding was common. 

The cheese was traditionally made from the leftover whey of sheep’s milk, although today, it can also be made from cow’s milk. 

How is it made?

The production of ricotta salata begins similarly to regular ricotta. After heating the whey and allowing the curds to form, the curds are drained and pressed to remove excess moisture. 

Following this, the curds are then salted and left to age for a minimum of 90 days. This aging process reduces the moisture content, resulting in a firmer cheese called ricotta salata.

Nutritional profile of ricotta salata cheese

Due to the aging and salting process, ricotta salata offers a different nutritional profile compared to its fresh counterpart. 

Below is a comparison of the nutritional information of whole milk ricotta salata and whole milk fresh ricotta cheese, presented per 100 grams.

Read article on the nutritional information of ricotta cheese.

How to use ricotta cheese

In this section, we explore various ways to use ricotta salata in your cooking. Here you have it:

Crumbled over salads

One of the simplest and most popular ways to use ricotta salata is to crumble it over salads. Its firm texture and tangy flavor add a delightful contrast to fresh greens and vegetables.

• Mediterranean salad: Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and crumbled ricotta salata. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Watermelon and mint salad: Toss diced watermelon, fresh mint leaves, and crumbled ricotta salata. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a refreshing summer salad.

Grated on pasta

Ricotta salata can be grated similarly to hard cheeses like Parmesan, adding a savory depth to pasta dishes.

• Pasta alla norma: A classic Sicilian dish with eggplant, tomatoes, and basil, topped with grated ricotta salata.
• Pasta with lemon and ricotta salata: Cook your favorite pasta and toss with olive oil, lemon zest, freshly ground black pepper, and grated ricotta salata for a simple yet flavorful meal.

Sliced in sandwiches and wraps

Adding slices of ricotta salata to sandwiches and wraps provides a delicious texture and flavor boost.

• Vegetable wrap: Layer sliced ricotta salata, roasted red peppers, spinach, and hummus in a whole wheat wrap for a healthy and satisfying lunch.
• Grilled chicken sandwich: Top grilled chicken breast with slices of ricotta salata, arugula, and sun-dried tomatoes on a ciabatta roll.

As a pizza topping

Ricotta salata makes a wonderful topping for pizzas, adding a unique flavor and texture.

• White pizza: Top a pizza crust with a mix of ricotta salata, mozzarella, garlic, and spinach. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
• Prosciutto and arugula pizza: After baking the pizza, add fresh arugula, thinly sliced prosciutto, and crumbled ricotta salata.

Considerations

While ricotta salata contains more protein than fresh ricotta cheese, it’s important to consider its sodium content. Due to the salting process used in its production, ricotta salata contains a higher amount of sodium compared to fresh ricotta. 

Consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease. Therefore, it’s important to enjoy ricotta salata in moderation, especially for individuals on a low-sodium diet

Consider pairing ricotta salata with fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Related: Is Ricotta Cheese Fattening?

Wrapping up: What is ricotta salata?

Ricotta salata is firm, crumbly, and slightly salty cheese. It’s made from the same curds as traditional fresh ricotta but undergoes an additional salting and aging process. 

While it does contain more sodium than fresh ricotta, it can be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. 

When pairing ricotta salata cheese, consider wines with a crisp acidity to balance its saltiness. White wines like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir work well. For food pairings, try it with figs, honey, or grilled vegetables. Enjoy every taste!