Perfect Vegan Ricotta Cheese (5 Minutes!)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Total Time
5 mins
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Servings
5 servings
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Calories
80 kcal
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Course
Side Dish
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Cuisine
Italian-American Fussion
Perfect Vegan Ricotta Cheese (5 Minutes!)
Description
Perfect Vegan Ricotta Cheese blends drained tofu with vegan yogurt, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and herbs to replicate ricotta's creamy texture and mild tang. The tofu provides structure and protein, while the yogurt adds creaminess and slight acidity. Flavors from garlic powder and Italian seasoning give it a subtle savory profile suitable for pasta fillings, spreads, or dips.
The preparation involves lightly pressing excess water from tofu, then mashing it with the yogurt and seasonings until the ricotta reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Adjusting amounts of seasoning allows customization for savory or sweeter dishes. The ricotta can be used immediately or chilled for later use.
This vegan ricotta stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Any separated liquid may be stirred back in or strained off. It is also suitable for freezing; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) package tofu Extra firm can also be used, firm
- ½ cup vegan yogurt See Notes, plain, unsweetened
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¾ teaspoon sea salt See Notes re: sweet recipes, fine, or mineral salt
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
Instructions
- There's no need to press the tofu, but we do want to remove some of the water. Drain the package, and wrap a tea towel or paper towels around the block of tofu. Holding the tofu over the sink lightly squeeze to remove some of the water. Place the tofu in a bowl with the other ingredients.
- Use a fork to mash the tofu and incorporate it with the yogurt and seasonings. Mash until the ricotta is as creamy as you like.
- Taste for seasoning, adding more yogurt, garlic, salt, and herbs, if desired. The tofu ricotta can be used now in a recipe or refrigerated for later use.
Notes
- Use plain, unsweetened vegan yogurt made from oat, coconut, cashew, almond, or soy for best results.
- Adjust seasonings when using this ricotta in sweet recipes: omit garlic powder and Italian seasoning, reduce salt, and increase lemon juice to taste.
- Store the ricotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; stir or strain any separated liquid before using.
- This ricotta freezes well; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 5servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 80 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 80kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
| Protein | 8g | 16% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 355mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Calcium | 164mg | 16% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.