Ricotta Cheese vs Ricotta Salata Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Ricotta Cheese and Ricotta Salata Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Ricotta Cheese and Ricotta Salata Cheese?"
• "Is Ricotta Cheese and Ricotta Salata Cheese the same?"
• "How does Ricotta Cheese compare to Ricotta Salata Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Ricotta Cheese compare to Ricotta Salata Cheese?"
• "Is Ricotta Cheese or Ricotta Salata Cheese better?"

Ricotta Cheese Overview

Ricotta is a soft Italian cheese made from the whey left over from the production of other cheeses, primarily sheep, cow, goat, or buffalo milk. It has a creamy texture and a mild, sweet flavor, making it versatile for both savory dishes, like lasagna and ravioli, and sweet dishes, such as cheesecakes and cannoli.

Ricotta Salata Cheese Overview

Ricotta Salata is a pressed, salted, dried, and aged version of ricotta, which turns it into a firm, crumbly cheese with a mild, milky flavor and a slightly salty bite. It's frequently grated over pasta, salads, or used in cooked dishes where a gentle cheese flavor is desired.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Ricotta Cheese comes from Italy. Ricotta Salata Cheese originated from Italy.

Milk Type and Treatment

Ricotta Cheese is made with cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo milk that is typically unknown. Ricotta Salata Cheese is made with sheep milk.

Composition and Texture

Ricotta Cheese has a fat content of varies and a moisture content of high. Ricotta's texture can be described as "soft, moist". Ricotta Salata's texture can be described as "semi-hard, whey".

Taste and Aroma

Ricotta Cheese has a sweet, slightly creamy taste. Ricotta's aroma can be described as "mild".

Appearance and Aging

Ricotta Cheese's appearance is colored white , is available in grainy soft mass and is aged fresh .

Rind and Rennet Type

Ricotta Cheese's rind is described as none and uses animal or microbial rennet.

Ranking

Ricotta is ranked #22 out of 996 types based on community views. Ricotta Salata is ranked #69 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Ricotta and Ricotta Salata pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a soft, moist cheese, go for Ricotta. But if you enjoy a semi-hard, whey consistency, Ricotta Salata might be the better pick.

Compare Ricotta Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Ricotta Salata Cheese to Other Cheeses