Artichoke Heart & Ricotta Stack

Looking to create a stunning vegetarian dish that embodies elegance and sophistication? The Artichoke Heart & Ricotta Stack is a beautifully layered masterpiece, combining earthy, tender artichoke hearts, creamy ricotta, and vibrant flavors like basil pesto and roasted red pepper coulis. Finished with a crispy Parmesan tuile and edible garnishes, this dish is perfect for fine dining enthusiasts or anyone looking to impress with gourmet plating.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or exploring a new culinary challenge, this recipe offers a harmonious balance of texture, flavor, and aesthetic appeal. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process and learn how to bring this elegant dish to life.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these high-quality ingredients to achieve the best flavors and presentation.

For the Stack:

• 6 marinated artichoke hearts (halved)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (preferably whole milk)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp basil pesto

For the Garnishes:

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for tuiles)
• 1/4 cup roasted red pepper coulis
• 1 tbsp aged balsamic reduction
• Microgreens (for garnish)
• Edible flowers (nasturtiums or pansies)

Step 1: Prepare the Artichoke Hearts

The tender, earthy artichoke hearts serve as the foundation of the stack, offering texture and depth.

Ingredients Used in This Step:
6 marinated artichoke hearts and 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil.

Method:

1. Sear the Artichokes: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the halved artichoke hearts cut-side down and sear for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for 1 minute.
2. Set Aside: Allow the artichoke hearts to cool slightly before assembling the stack.

💡 Pro Tip: Use herb-infused olive oil (such as garlic or rosemary) for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 2: Whip the Ricotta

Light and creamy, the ricotta creates a luxurious texture that contrasts beautifully with the artichokes.

Ingredients Used in This Step:
1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 tbsp lemon zest, and 1/4 tsp sea salt.

Method:

1. Mix the Ricotta: In a small bowl, whisk together the ricotta, lemon zest, and sea salt until smooth and airy.
2. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Add a touch of olive oil for added creaminess and flavor.

💡 Pro Tip: For a smoother texture, blend the ricotta in a food processor for 30 seconds.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Tuiles

The Parmesan tuile adds a crunchy, golden garnish that elevates the dish’s texture and presentation.

Ingredients Used in This Step:
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

Method:

1. Preheat and Shape: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a parchment-lined baking sheet, spread Parmesan cheese into thin circles (about 3 inches in diameter).
2. Bake: Bake for 5–6 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and shape into curls by draping over a rolling pin while still warm.

💡 Pro Tip: For an extra touch, sprinkle the cheese with freshly cracked black pepper before baking.

Step 4: Assemble the Stack

The stack is the centerpiece of the dish, with layers of artichokes, ricotta, and basil pesto creating a perfect harmony of flavors.

Ingredients Used in This Step:
Sear-cooked artichoke hearts, whipped ricotta, and basil pesto.

Method:

1. Layer the Ingredients: Place a round plating ring in the center of your plate. Start with a layer of artichoke hearts, followed by a dollop of ricotta, and a light spread of basil pesto. Repeat until the stack reaches 3–4 layers.
2. Top with Parmesan Tuile: Gently place the crispy Parmesan tuile on top of the stack for added height and texture.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a small offset spatula to smooth each layer for a clean, professional look.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Plating transforms the dish into a visual masterpiece.

Ingredients Used in This Step:
Roasted red pepper coulis, aged balsamic reduction, microgreens, and edible flowers.

Method:

1. Drizzle the Sauces: Use a spoon to create sweeping motions of roasted red pepper coulis around the stack. Add small drops of balsamic reduction for contrast.
2. Add Garnishes: Arrange microgreens and edible flowers around the stack for pops of freshness and color.
3. Finish the Plate: Serve the dish on a porcelain plate to enhance the fine dining presentation.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep garnishes minimal to maintain a clean, sophisticated aesthetic.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Vegetarian Elegance: Perfect for fine dining without meat, showcasing the beauty of simple ingredients.
• Layered Flavors: Earthy artichokes, creamy ricotta, and vibrant pesto come together for a harmonious bite.
• Visually Stunning: From the golden Parmesan tuile to the vibrant coulis, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair this dish with a light, citrus-forward Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Prosecco to complement the creamy ricotta and earthy artichokes. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water infused with lemon and basil.

Share Your Creation with #BeyondEveryBite

We’d love to see your take on the Artichoke Heart & Ricotta Stack! Share your beautifully plated creations on Pinterest or social media using our hashtag #BeyondEveryBite for a chance to be featured.

Enjoy creating this fine dining vegetarian masterpiece and transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary art. Bon appétit! 🌿✨