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Mascarpone Cheese Dip with Fresh Herbs and Spiced Olive Oil Recipe

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3.9 from 7 reviews

This creamy Mascarpone Cheese Dip combines the richness of mascarpone with the tangy brightness of sour cream and lemon zest, enhanced by fresh herbs and a hint of spice. Perfect as a versatile appetizer or snack, this smooth dip pairs wonderfully with crackers and fresh vegetables for an easy, elegant treat.

  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Cheese Base

  • 125 grams Mascarpone cheese (half a tub)
  • 3/4 cup sour cream
  • 3 tablespoons milk (optional, add one tablespoon at a time if using)
  • Pinch of salt or to taste
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Finishing Touches

  • Extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
  • Spices: smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, spring onion, or basil)

Instructions

  1. Mix the Mascarpone and Sour Cream
    In a medium bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese and sour cream. Use a whisk or spatula to blend them together until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
  2. Adjust Consistency
    If you prefer a thinner dip, add milk one tablespoon at a time, stirring after each addition, until the dip reaches your desired texture. For a thicker, spreadable dip, you can skip this step.
  3. Finishing
    Spread the dip evenly in the serving bowl using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over the top. Sprinkle smoked paprika and red pepper flakes according to taste, then add a pinch of salt if needed.
  4. Mix or Top with Salt and Zest
    You can choose to mix the salt and lemon zest into the dip before spreading, or sprinkle them on top as a finishing touch—both methods enhance the flavor effectively.
  5. Garnish and Serve
    Finish the dip with a garnish of chopped fresh spring onions, flat-leaf parsley, additional spice if desired, a light drizzle of olive oil, and a little more lemon zest. Serve the dip chilled or at room temperature alongside crackers and fresh vegetables.

Notes

  • Adjust the milk quantity carefully to achieve your preferred dip consistency.
  • Use fresh lemon zest for the best citrus flavor.
  • The dip can be prepared a few hours in advance and refrigerated to meld flavors.
  • Try different fresh herbs such as basil or chives for a flavor variation.
  • Serve this dip as a spread on bread or as a condiment for grilled meats for added versatility.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dip
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian