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ricotta cheese.

VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-freeFermented

ALSO KNOWN AS

recotta cheesericottawhey cheese

Recipes with ricotta cheese + Add to pantry

SERVING

CALORIES

174

PROTEIN

11.3g

CARBS

3.0g

FAT

13g

FIBER

NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g

Everything in this ingredient.

MACRONUTRIENTS

Calories174kcal—

Protein11.3g23%

Carbohydrates3.0g1%

Fiber0g0%

Sugar3.0g6%

Total fat13g17%

Saturated fat8.3g42%

Trans fat0g—

Cholesterol51mg17%

Water71.7g—

MINERALS

Sodium84mg4%

Potassium105mg2%

Calcium207mg16%

Iron0.40mg2%

Magnesium11mg3%

Phosphorus158mg13%

Zinc1.1mg10%

Copper0.02mg2%

Manganese0.01mg0%

Selenium14.5µg26%

VITAMINS

Vitamin A120µg13%

Vitamin C0mg0%

Vitamin D0.10µg1%

Vitamin E0.11mg1%

Vitamin K1.2µg1%

Thiamin (B1)0.01mg1%

Riboflavin (B2)0.20mg15%

Niacin (B3)0.10mg1%

Pantothenic acid (B5)0.20mg4%

Vitamin B60.04mg2%

Folate (B9)12µg3%

Vitamin B120.34µg14%

%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.

MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS

How much is what.

1 cup247g

1 tablespoon15.5g

1 teaspoon5.2g

1 oz28.4g

1 lb453.6g

1 ml1g

1 liter1033.3g

HEALTH BENEFITS

Why eat it.

✓Excellent source of whey protein, which is easily absorbed and supports muscle growth and repair.
✓Rich in calcium and phosphorus, essential minerals for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
✓Provides a good amount of selenium, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports thyroid function.
✓Contains Vitamin B12, which is crucial for nerve function and the formation of red blood cells.

COOKING TIPS

In the kitchen.

1For fillings in dishes like lasagna, ravioli, or cannoli, drain the ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh sieve for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture and prevent a watery result.
2Whip or blend ricotta to create a smoother, creamier texture for use in dips, sauces, or as a dessert base.
3Use as a healthier, high-protein substitute for cream or mayonnaise in some recipes to add richness with fewer calories and less fat.
4Spread on toast and top with savory items like olive oil and tomatoes, or sweet toppings like honey and fresh fruit for a simple, nutritious meal.

STORAGE

Keep it fresh.

Keep refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C) in its original sealed container.
Once opened, consume within 5 to 7 days. Drain any excess liquid (whey) before resealing to maintain texture and prevent spoilage.
Freezing is not recommended as it significantly alters the creamy texture, making it grainy and watery upon thawing.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Is ricotta cheese healthy?

Yes, ricotta is a nutritious dairy choice. It is an excellent source of high-quality whey protein for muscle repair and provides essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus for bone health, while generally being lower in sodium than many aged cheeses.

How much protein is in ricotta cheese?

Ricotta contains approximately 11.3g of protein per 100g. It is particularly rich in whey protein, which is more easily absorbed by the body than casein, making it highly effective for muscle growth and recovery.

Is ricotta cheese keto-friendly?

Yes, ricotta is considered keto-friendly as it contains only 3g of carbohydrates per 100g. Its high fat content (13g) and moderate protein make it a versatile ingredient for low-carb savory dishes and desserts.

Is ricotta cheese lactose-free?

No, ricotta is not lactose-free as it is a dairy product made from milk whey. While the draining process removes some lactose, individuals with high sensitivity should look for specifically labeled lactose-free varieties.

Can I freeze ricotta cheese?

You can freeze ricotta for up to two months, but the texture will become significantly more crumbly and watery once thawed. It is best used in cooked or baked dishes like lasagna or pancakes after freezing rather than eaten fresh.

What does ricotta cheese taste like?

Ricotta has a very mild, slightly sweet flavor with a creamy and slightly grainy texture. Because its flavor is subtle, it easily adopts the flavors of other ingredients in both sweet and savory recipes.

What is a good substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese is the most common substitute due to its similar mild flavor, though it is lumpier. For a smoother texture in desserts, mascarpone can be used, while silken tofu is a popular plant-based alternative.

How long does ricotta cheese last once opened?

Once opened, ricotta cheese should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator and typically lasts for 5 to 7 days. Always check for signs of spoilage such as a sour smell, mold, or a yellowish tint.

Is ricotta cheese gluten-free?

Pure ricotta cheese is naturally gluten-free as it is made from whey, milk, and an acidifier. However, always check the label on flavored varieties or pre-made ricotta fillings, as they may contain thickeners or additives that include gluten.

Is ricotta cheese good for weight loss?

Ricotta can be beneficial for weight loss because its high protein content (11.3g per 100g) promotes a feeling of fullness. However, at 174 calories per 100g, it should be consumed in moderation to manage overall caloric intake.

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