Ricotta salata is a popular Italian cheese that can be found in the Marche region of Italy. Specifically, it can be found in the towns of Fermo, Ascoli Piceno, and Macerata, as well as in the communes of Ancona and Pesaro. This cheese can be found in local specialty food stores, as well as in larger supermarkets and cheese shops in the region.
Ricotta salata is a firm, salty cheese made from the whey of sheep’s milk. It is often used in Italian cuisine as a grating cheese, and is commonly used in pasta dishes and salads. One popular recipe using ricotta salata is a simple pasta dish with cherry tomatoes, garlic, and basil, where the cheese is grated over the top for a salty kick. Another recipe is a watermelon and ricotta salata salad, where the cheese is crumbled over the sweet fruit for a delicious contrast of flavors.
Ricotta salata has been recognized with the PAT (Traditional Agri-food Product) designation, which signifies its traditional production methods and ties to the region. The cheese must meet certain specifications to receive this recognition, including being made from sheep’s milk, being aged for at least 3 months, and having a firm texture and salty flavor.
Sources:
– www.italianfoodexcellence.com
– www.italianfood.net