Mediterranean Roasted Garlic Ricotta Dip with Pita Chips

This Mediterranean Roasted Garlic Ricotta Dip with Pita Chips is creamy, savory, and effortlessly elegant. The combination of sweet, caramelized roasted garlic and smooth ricotta creates a light yet rich dip that’s perfect for snacking or entertaining. Paired with crisp homemade pita chips brushed with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, this dip feels indulgent while staying fresh and wholesome.

Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

For the Dip:

250 g ricotta cheese

1 whole head of garlic

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp lemon juice

Salt and black pepper, to taste

(Optional: a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes)

For the Pita Chips:

2–3 pita breads, cut into triangles

1–2 tbsp olive oil

Salt, to taste

Instructions

Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30–35 minutes, until soft and golden. Let cool slightly.

Make the Ricotta Dip

In a food processor or blender, combine ricotta, roasted garlic (squeeze out the cloves), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste, and add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes if desired.

Prepare the Pita Chips

While the garlic roasts, toss pita triangles with olive oil and salt.

Spread them on a baking tray and bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden.

Serve

Transfer the ricotta dip to a bowl and drizzle with a little olive oil.

Garnish with herbs, chili flakes, or a dusting of paprika if you like. Serve warm pita chips on the side for dipping.

Tips:

Roast the garlic slowly: Don’t rush it—roasting at a steady 400°F (200°C) brings out the garlic’s natural sweetness and removes any harsh bite. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s soft, golden, and buttery in texture.

Use good-quality ricotta: A creamy, full-fat ricotta gives the best texture. If your ricotta is watery, strain it through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve for 10–15 minutes before blending.

Blend until silky: For a super-smooth dip, let the food processor run for at least 30 seconds. Add a splash of olive oil or a spoonful of Greek yogurt if you want it extra creamy.

Warm before serving: Ricotta dip tastes best slightly warm. You can gently heat it in the oven or microwave before serving if it’s been refrigerated.

Watch the pita chips: They can go from golden to burnt quickly in the oven, so keep an eye on them during the last couple of minutes.

Variations:

Add herbs: Fresh basil, thyme, or parsley blend beautifully into the dip for a more Mediterranean feel.

Spice it up: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes, za’atar, or a drizzle of chili oil for heat and aroma.

Add extra cheese: A little grated Parmesan or crumbled feta gives the dip more depth and saltiness.

Make it tangier: Swap some of the ricotta for Greek yogurt or labneh for a slight tang.

Roasted veggie twist: Blend in a few roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for a colorful variation.

For a smoother pita chip: Use flatbread or lavash instead of pita for thinner, crispier chips.

Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts, pistachios, or sesame seeds over the dip before serving.

Q&A

Q: Can I make the dip ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can make it up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, then bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have a food processor?
A: You can mash the roasted garlic with a fork and stir it into the ricotta by hand. The texture will be a little more rustic but still creamy and delicious.

Q: Can I use store-bought pita chips?
A: Absolutely. Homemade pita chips taste fresher, but store-bought ones save time and still pair perfectly with the dip.

Q: How can I make it more filling?
A: Add a drizzle of olive oil and top the dip with chopped roasted vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, or serve with raw veggies for dipping.

Q: Can I substitute another cheese for ricotta?
A: Yes. You can use whipped feta, mascarpone, or even cream cheese for a different flavor and texture—just adjust the lemon juice or seasoning to balance the richness.

Nutrition

(per serving, based on 6 servings)

Calories: 230

Protein: 9 g

Carbohydrates: 14 g

Fat: 16 g

Fiber: 2 g

Sugar: 2 g

(Values may vary depending on ricotta type, olive oil amount, and pita size.)

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Roasted Garlic Ricotta Dip with Pita Chips is simple, creamy, and full of cozy, roasted flavor. The sweet, mellow garlic blends beautifully with smooth ricotta and a touch of lemon, while the homemade pita chips add a crisp, salty contrast. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that works as an appetizer, snack, or side for any gathering. Serve it warm, drizzle with olive oil, and enjoy a dip that feels both rustic and refined—Mediterranean comfort at its best.