Strawberry Compote w/ Whipped Ricotta

I'm writing this post from Italy. We just got back from a long, but beautiful day learning about food and eating! And one of the things we learned about is CHEESE! I had the most fresh, delicious ricotta today! When one of the ladies in our group declared that it would be SO good with a little fruit compote on top, I was instantly reminded that I had this recipe ready to go! The ricotta we had was made from sheep's milk, but it's often made from cow's milk in the U.S. It's actually a byproduct of making cheese! Ricotta literally translates to "re-cooked"! When it's fresh, it can actually taste almost like ice cream (or in my case, gelato!).

Initially I created this dish to show off some fresh, Spring strawberries, which are just coming into season in the the Northeast. They're one of the first berries of the year! Strawberries are a fabulous source of immune boosting Vitamin C, and antioxidants, strawberries are good for your heart AND brain, and can even help you shed some pounds! 

This recipe wraps up my brunch menu recipes. I hope you've enjoyed them all! Don't forget to combine ALL the dishes so you can impress Mom, (or anyone else) next month with the perfect brunch get together!

Buon Appetito!

Strawberry Compote with Whipped Ricotta
Serves 10

2 lbs. strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 C. sugar
zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 C. water
pinch of salt
2 tsp. rose water, divided
2 C. fresh ricotta
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
crusty Italian bread, for serving

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, rose water and 1 tsp of rose water. Bring to a simmer, using the back of the spoon to mash a few pieces of strawberries. Allow to simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat, pour into a bowl and set aside to cool. 

In a separate bowl, combine ricotta, vanilla, and cinnamon. Beat until combined, but don't over mix or the cheese will become liquidy. Place whipped ricotta into a serving dish, top with some strawberry compote and serve with crusty bread.