Distinctive artisan-crafted flavour shaped by Vancouver Island’s coastal terroir

Natural Pastures Cheese Company Wins Gold at the 2025 World Cheese Awards in Bern, Switzerland

StickyAwards, News, Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Courtenay, BC — Natural Pastures Cheese Company is proud to announce its Gold Medal win at the 2025 World Cheese Awards, held in Bern, Switzerland, for its celebrated Smoked Boerenkaas — finishing just one point shy of the coveted Super Gold distinction.

This achievement reflects the dedication, craftsmanship, and innovation of the entire Natural Pastures team. As an artisan cheesemaker, every wheel we create is truly hands-on — shaped, cared for, aged, and smoked by people who bring skill and intention to every step. From our cheesemaker Paul Sutters team, crafting Boerenkaas with precision, to our packaging Tom Unrau’s team who smoke and age each wheel to perfection, and Doug’s administrative team ensuring our cheeses reach customers across Canada — this award celebrates the work of many hands.

The story behind our Smoked Boerenkaas makes this win even more meaningful. What began as a modest, hands-on experiment many years ago — when now retired sales manager, Rick Adam’s first tested smoke flow using a Coleman camping cooler with a hole drilled into it — has since evolved into a fully specialized smoke room. Today, we use locally sourced Vancouver Island wood to achieve the cheese’s signature depth, character, and unmistakable west-coast flavour.

Smoked Boerenkaas shines on any cheese board with its rich, savoury depth and smooth, golden finish. Its natural smokiness pairs beautifully with crusty artisan breads, buttery crackers, and coastal-inspired charcuterie. For beverages, it complements bold red wines, amber ales, and smokey whiskey -whose warm, smoky whisky notes mirror and elevate the character of this cheese. Whether melted into gourmet dishes or enjoyed simply on its own, Smoked Boerenkaas brings a touch of West Coast craftsmanship to every bite.

“We are thrilled to be recognized on the world stage,” said Operation Manager Doug Smith at Natural Pastures. “This award reflects not only the skill and passion of our staff, but also the support of our customers, distributers, retailers, and community across Canada. We are honoured to represent Vancouver Island and Canadian artisan cheesemaking at an international level.”

Natural Pastures Cheese Company extends heartfelt thanks to its loyal customers, local partners, and the broader Canadian dairy community, whose support makes achievements like this possible.

About Natural Pastures Cheese Company
Based in Courtenay, British Columbia, started in 2001 and still owned by Edgar, Phillip and Doug Smith, 3rd Generation Island farmers, Natural Pastures Cheese Company crafts award-winning, hands-on artisan cheeses. Using 100% Canadian milk sourced from Vancouver Island dairy farms, they have a focus on quality, tradition, and coastal terroir, the company continues to innovate while honouring European cheesemaking techniques.

Media Contact: Natural Pastures Cheese Company 635 McPhee Avenue, Courtenay, BC / Anyssa Jane General Manager anyssa@naturalpastures.com

Find Natural Pastures Cheese at find Food Retailers in Canada and in the Deli Section at your grocery Store. Retails if you are not listed please contact Anyssa to make sure you are on the list!

For more about the event check out this article: https://culturecheesemag.com/blog/reflections-on-the-world-cheese-awards-in-switzerland/

Here is a list of customers that have ordered Smoked Boerenkass in the last 30 days – Please call them ahead to check for stock:

Ontario, Canada

Dags and Willow

Yukon Territory Canada

Cultured Fine Cheese

British Columbia Canada

Gladstone Brewery

40 Knots Winery

Fairmont Empress Hotel

Hanks A Restaurant

Market on Yates

Thrifty Foods #15–9463 Admirals

Thrifty Foods #16–9464 Nanaimo

Thrifty Foods #24–9472 Surrey

Thrifty Foods #27–9471 Duncan

Thrifty Foods #29–9478 Comox

Thrifty Foods #33–9480 Belmont Market

Thrifty Foods #34–9481 Courtenay

Thrifty Foods #35–9483 Edgemont

Western Foods #087420

Whole Foods Market – Park Royal

Whole Foods Market – Cambie

Whole Foods Market – Solo District

Wickaninnish Inn

Working Culture Bread Ltd.

YIG #7309 Brewery City Market

YIG #1688 Fernie

YIG #5488 Kamloops

YIG #1816 Kelowna Capri

Loblaws City Market #7534

YIG #4034 Yellowknife Old Airport

YIG #1887 Whistler

Alberta Canada

Calgary Co-op


Articles: Courtenay cheese company wins gold in World Cheese Awards | Comox Valley Record

Grapes and Grills at Beaufort Winery

Comox Valley, Specials and Events, ,

Join us for a Festive Melted-Cheese Cocktail Party at Beaufort Winery!

Saturday December 13th – 3-5 PM – Tickets can be purchased here

Step into the warmth of Beaufort’s beautiful barrel room for an afternoon of cozy holiday fun, great wine, and delicious melted cheese. Anyssa from Natural Pastures will be serving a raclette-style experience — not a traditional raclette setup, but our own Island take on the joy of warm cheese poured over tasty bites.

We’ll be melting four favourites: Smoked Boerenkaas, Amsterdammer, King’s Peak, and Garlic & Chives, ready to drizzle over chips, roasted veggies, cured meats, and more from As You Like It Catering.

To make each savoury bite even better, Beaufort has selected six of their top wines to pair with our cheeses — a beautiful mix of crisp whites, sparkling surprises, and cool-climate reds crafted for perfect sipping.

Gather, melt, sip, and celebrate the season with us — Island style.

A big thank you from an artisan cheese Factory

mozzarella, Videos, Water Buffalo Cheese
Buy BC Ambassador Michael Tchao with Natural Pastures cheesemaker Paul Sutter and a wheel of cheese. Photo: Richard Maxton.

Buy BC Ambassador Michael Tchao with Natural Pastures cheesemaker Paul Sutter and a wheel of cheese. Photo: Richard Maxton.

A thank you note:

Dear Buy BC Team and Chef Michael and everyone involved from farm to factory,

All the best — and a heartfelt thank you — for taking the time, energy and care to visit the Vancouver Island Water Buffalo farms, getting to know our team, ( some with 4 legs, some with 2) and crafting the wonderful videos about water-buffalo cheese. Your commitment to telling the story behind the milk and cheeses — from pasture to plate — means a great deal to us.

You’ve helped shine a spotlight on the hard work, dedication, and passion that goes into every wheel and wedge.

We’re deeply grateful for your effort, your respect for our farmers and cheesemakers, and your support in helping British Columbians appreciate what makes buffalo-milk cheese so special.

Thank you again, from all of us at Natural Pastures.

What was published? See below all the work that came together!

Why British Columbians Love Water Buffalo Cheese

We have a summery of the articles and videos but please check out all the content: it will assist you to understand the care and attention that goes into all our cheese.

Buy BC Website: Why British Columbians love water buffalo cheese so much
Buy BC Facebook sharing out the website post
Buy BC X Michael Tchao Instagram Carousel (behind the scenes)
Buy BC X Michael Tchao Instagram Reel


In British Columbia, farms such as Coleman Meadows Farm (Port Alberni) and McClintock Farm in Courtenay, raise water buffalo whose milk is rich, high in fat and low in cholesterol — ideal for cheesemaking. That milk travels to Natural Pastures Cheese Company in Courtenay, where skilled cheesemakers transform it into authentic cheeses like Mozzarella di Bufala, Bocconcini di Bufala, Buffalo Brie, and more.
Though water buffalo are newcomers to Canadian dairy — first arriving in 2000 — their global legacy and the ideal climate and forage on Vancouver Island make them well-suited to thrive here. The post underscores that cheesemaking at Natural Pastures combines artisanal tradition with modern precision: while state-of-the-art equipment supports consistency, much of the magic is in the hands-on expertise, from feeling the curd to judging texture by touch.

The article also places emphasis on the deeper meaning behind the cheese: it’s not just about dairy, but community, sustainability, and long-term commitment. Farms like Coleman Meadows are rooted in care for land, animals and people. Buy BC – Government of British Columbia In this way, water-buffalo cheese becomes a symbol of local agriculture’s cycle — where local forage nourishes animals, which yield milk that nourishes people, strengthening the entire community in the process. Buy BC – Government of British Columbia

Leonard Conlin: Elevating Cheese Culture at Calgary Co-op in Alberta

Alberta Cheese Shops, News, Specials and Events, , ,

When you browse the cheese case at Calgary Co-op, you might not see Leonard Conlin behind the counter — but you’ll certainly see his influence. As Calgary Co-op’s Deli Cheese Merchandising Coordinator and Alberta’s few active ACS Certified Cheese Professional®, Leonard is shaping how cheese is presented, understood, and enjoyed across all the Calgary Co-op locations.

Leonard has dedicated over 11 years to the art of cheesemongering. He began in a boutique cheese shop, spending eight years developing a deep understanding of artisan producers, before joining Calgary Co-op three years ago. His role today is both hands-on and educational. As an ACS Certified Cheese Professional®, he belongs to a select group in Western Canada recognized for mastery of cheese science, handling, and sensory evaluation. Beyond technical expertise, Leonard is a mentor and educator. He trains and inspires Calgary Co-op staff, building a stronger knowledge base so that customers can trust the advice they receive in-store. Our Master Cheese Maker Paul Sutter visited recently to present on one of their staff training days and was very impress on the training that has been put into place.

Leonard also oversees how cheese is sourced, displayed, and recommended, ensuring that Calgary Co-op members discover new flavours and pairings. With more than a decade of experience in pairing wine, beer, and spirits with cheese, his influence extends beyond the counter to the way customers experience food at home.

Leonard’s path to cheese is informed by a life full of eclectic experiences. A former national endurance cyclist, he also worked in fashion retail and pediatric orthotic care, careers that honed his eye for detail, kindness, and his commitment to improving people’s lives. This Renaissance perspective shapes how he approaches cheese. Just as he once curated clothing with style and precision, currently curates his own photography, he also curates food experiences with craftsmanship and individuality. His background makes him uniquely suited to bring depth and personality to Calgary Co-op’s cheese program.

Calgary Co-op has been a community-driven grocer since 1956, built on the principles of local ownership, sourcing, and reinvestment in Alberta. It is an organization that values quality, local partnerships, and member experience — exactly the values that guide Leonard’s work. With his leadership, Calgary Co-op customers encounter cheese cases that highlight artisan producers, showcase Canadian excellence, and encourage exploration. His influence ensures that cheeses like those from Natural Pastures are not just placed on shelves, but given context, pairing ideas, and the spotlight they deserve.

At Natural Pastures Cheese Company, we are proud to have Leonard championing our cheeses within Calgary Co-op. His training programs, merchandising vision, and educational leadership mean that when you pick up our cheese at Calgary Co-op, you are also benefiting from his expertise — whether through a staff recommendation, a pairing tip, or the thoughtful way the cheese is presented. Thanks to Leonard, Calgary Co-op shoppers don’t just buy cheese. They discover it.

Thank you to our Calgary Sales Co-Ordinator Danielle Smith for attending a members event and being a great photographer! If you are in Alberta and looking for our cheese just contact our us on our wholesale page: https://naturalpastures.com/wholesale/

Recall July 2025

News
Canadian cheese- Natural Pastures cheese Company

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Natural Pastures Cheese Company Issues Voluntary Recall of Buffalo Medium Cheese
— This product was not sold in grocery stores and did not reach any store shelves.

Courtenay, BC — July 21 — Natural Pastures Cheese Company issued a voluntary recall of a limited quantity of Buffalo Medium Cheese (Batch #854 179) following a positive test result regarding possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. A Single Wheel and 12 cut and wrap pieces.

Importantly, this batch was not sold in any grocery stores or our Artisan Cheese Shop. This product is not sold in any grocery stores. It was distributed in Ontario to a small number of direct-to-customer or specialty orders and the factory store. It was recalled before it went up for sale.
If you by chance you have purchased or received Natural Pastures Cheese Company-branded Buffalo Medium Cheese with batch number 854 179, please do not consume it. Dispose of the product or return it to us for a refund.

To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this product.

At Natural Pastures Cheese Company, food safety is our highest priority. We are cooperating fully with CFIA and taking immediate steps to investigate and ensure no further impact.

For more information or to arrange a return, please contact our Customer Service at 250-334-4422 #102 or cheese@naturalpastures.com with Recall – in the email title.

– 30 –

Media Contact:
Anyssa Jane
General Manager
Natural Pastures Cheese Company
cheese@naturalpastures.com

Award-Winning Natural Pastures Cheese Now Available at Dags & Willow in Ontario

Ontario Cheese Stores
Natural Pastures Water Buffalo Brie available at Dags & Willow Fine Cheese in Ontario.

Dags & Willow to Bring Award-Winning Artisan Cheese to Ontario

For Immediate Release  

Courtenay, BC – May 21, 2025 – Natural Pastures Cheese Company, an award-winning artisan cheesemaker based on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, is proud to announce a new distribution partnership with Dags & Willow, a cheese distribution company based in Collingwood, Ontario. This collaboration will make Natural Pastures’ celebrated cheeses more accessible to customers and retailers on the east coast of Canada.

Collingwood is located in Simcoe County, on the western edge of the region. It’s specifically situated on the southern shores of Georgian Bay, near Blue Mountain. Collingwood also serves as a gateway to the South Georgian Bay region, which encompasses a broader area including other municipalities and First Nation communities. 

 For over 20 years, Natural Pastures Cheese Company has crafted fine artisan cheeses using whole milk sourced exclusively from Vancouver Island farms. Their distinct collection includes cheeses made from many local cow herds and 2 water buffalo herds, both raised on the island. The unique coastal terroir, fresh island air, and commitment to simple ingredients create the exceptional flavor profiles that define Natural Pastures’ offerings.

 “We’re thrilled to partner with Dags & Willow — tastemakers who celebrate the richness of Canadian terroir, slow food, and the kind of cheese that tells a story with every bite,” said Anyssa Jane, General Manager at Natural Pastures Cheese Company. “By bringing our products to Ontario through Dags & Willow, we’re connecting even more Canadians to the rich agricultural traditions and incredible milk of Vancouver Island, British Columbia.”

 In addition to being a leading distributor or cheese and gourmet foods in Ontario, Dags & Willow is also a beloved destination in Collingwood, offering a curated selection of over 150 artisan cheeses, gourmet foods, fine wines, and hosting an upscale second-floor event space. Known for their commitment to quality, thoughtful sourcing, and exceptional customer service, they are the ideal partner to represent Natural Pastures’ premium range in Ontario.

 “With an increased demand for Canadian made products, Natural Pastures’ cheeses were an easy choice for us when we looked into expanding our selection — they are a true reflection of place and tradition, something we deeply value,” said Cassidy Sturch, Cheesemonger and Business Manager at Dags & Willow. “We’re excited to introduce our customers to their outstanding cheeses and the remarkable story behind them.”

Natural Pastures’ first shipment to Dags & Willow is scheduled in May 2025, with products expected to arrive in Collingwood just in time for summer entertaining and cottage season.

 Customers will soon find a curated selection of Natural Pastures Cheese Company’s products — including their acclaimed Water Buffalo Brie, Comox Brie, Boerenkaas, Buffeta, and Aged Farmhouse — at Dags & Willow’s shop at 25 Second Street in Collingwood. Products will also be available through their catering services, grazing tables, and custom gift baskets. Additionally, Dags & Willow will offer the entirety of Natural Pastures’ line to gourmet cheese shops across Ontario.

 For more information about Natural Pastures Cheese Company, please visit www.naturalpastures.com.

To explore Dags & Willow Fine Cheese & Gourmet Shop, visit www.dagsandwillow.ca.

Press contact :

Anyssa Jane – GM Natural Pastures Cheese Co.
Email : anyssa@naturalpastures.com
Desk : 250-3344422 *102
#Findnaturalpasturescheese

Click to get to Dags and Willow Instagram and see the magic they make with a share table!

Other stores in Ontario who list some of our cheese:

Sweet Cheeses – Guelph
Milk Maid – Owen Sound, Port Elgin & Meaford
Millbrook Mercantile – Millbrook
Cheese Bar – St. Clair Beach (Windsor)
Orchards Fresh Food Market – North Bay
Good Cheese – Toronto
Grape & Wedge – Apsley 
Perth Cheese Shop – Perth
Dover Cheese Shop – Port Dover
Le Firm Black River
The Cheese Boutique
Denninger’s – Experience Great Food

Meet the Heart Behind the Hive: Daniel of Big D’s Bees

Press Release, Vancouver Island Strong Stories, , , , ,

Meet the Heart Behind the Hive: Daniel of Big D’s Bees

Article by Anyssa Jane – Natural Pastures Cheese

Tucked into the fertile landscapes of the Comox Valley, Big D’s Bees is more than just a honey company—it’s the expression of a life rooted in family, faith, and the rhythms of the land. At the center of it all is Daniel, the beekeeper-turned-entrepreneur whose journey into the food world started not with a business plan, but with a fascination for bugs.

Daniel didn’t always picture himself running a honey business. Growing up in the dairy industry, he understood hard work and the value of honest food—but bees? That was an unexpected twist. What began as a curiosity quickly turned into a passion, and before long, a full-fledged business. Today, Big D’s Bees produces raw honey the old-fashioned way, with a deep respect for the bees, the land, and the people they feed.

“For me, honey isn’t just a product, it’s a way of life,” Daniel says. “Beekeeping connects me to generations of farmers who understood the importance of working with the seasons, not against them.”

There’s a moment Daniel often talks about—a defining one. Standing in a buzzing bee yard during his first harvest, he cracked open a fresh frame of honey, tasted it straight from the comb, and knew: this was it. It wasn’t just about honey. It was about creating something real—something people could taste, trust, and bring into their homes.

And it shows. Big D’s honey has become a staple in many kitchens, often enjoyed in tea, drizzled over toast, or folded into baked goods. But one of Daniel’s favourite unexpected pairings? Prosciutto & Pear Stone Oven Pizza finished with a delicate Fireweed Honey drizzle. Sweet, savory, rich and floral—it’s a local favourite that proves honey can do more than just sweeten your tea.

Over the past 20 years, Daniel and his wife have built Big D’s Bees together, learning as they go. One of the biggest lessons? Letting go of the idea that he had to do everything himself. “Building a team has made the business stronger—and the work more rewarding,” he reflects.

Daniel’s wife Justine works along side him doing marketing and distribution for the company. The couple enjoys raising their daughter and sons here in the beautiful Comox Valley region.

Through it all, Daniel’s food philosophy remains beautifully simple: “Rooted in faith, guided by the rhythms of farming, and fueled by a love for family—my food philosophy is all about creating honest, nourishing products that connect people back to what matters most.”

And if you ever found yourself at Daniel’s dream dinner party, you’d be in fine company: Jesus, Noah, and Ray Charles. Over steak, red wine, and ice cream, they’d talk faith, stories of old, and wrap up the evening with a drum and piano jam session.

Big D’s Bees is more than a local honey producer—it’s a reflection of a life lived with care, patience, and purpose. From hive to jar, Daniel’s honey is a golden reminder of what happens when we slow down, listen to the land, and let the bees do their magic.

We sell the honey here in our Artisan Cheese Shop at Natural Pastures Cheese open Monday to Friday 9-4 closed Holidays.

The mcdavid mozzarella natural pastures

McDavid Mozzarella is Only available in our Artisan Cheese Shop at Natural Pastures Cheese Company

Ideas & Info, Press Release,

In Canada we take hockey, lacrosse and cheese very seriously!

We’re celebrating Canada’s big hockey win this past week with something truly special—a new limited-edition mozzarella made with 100% Canadian water buffalo milk, rich in A2 protein!

On February 18, 2025, at 6:30 PM PST, Team Canada defeated Team USA 3-2 in overtime to win the 4 Nations Face-Off Championship. The game was a rematch of their intense preliminary-round battle, where Canada fell 3-1 to the Americans. This time, with gold on the line, Canada rose to the challenge, delivering a thrilling finish in overtime.

With the legendary rivalry between Canada and the USA intensified by both history and national pride, this game carried significance beyond sport. Fans on both sides were deeply invested, and the excitement extended beyond the rink—the CN Tower and Montreal’s Olympic Stadium glowed in red and white ahead of the final, while the Empire State Building was illuminated in red, white, and blue. Though the championship took place at TD Garden in Boston, a wave of Canadian fans made their presence felt, creating an electric atmosphere.

new pressed water buffalo mozzarella to celebrate team Canada's win in hockey

To honour this incredible victory, we’ve crafted McDavid Mozzarella—a cheese that embodies the same dedication and excellence that led Team Canada to gold.

Just like in hockey, making great cheese takes commitment and a strong team. From the farmers at McClintock’s Farm and Coleman Meadow Farms who supply our rich, creamy water buffalo milk, to our expert cheesemakers who carefully craft and age each wheel, and our packaging team who ensures every piece is perfect—this cheese is a true team effort.

McDavid Mozzarella is the ultimate cheese for pizza, lasagna, and breaded mozzarella sticks. Its creamy, stretchy texture and rich flavour make it the perfect addition to your favourite comfort foods. Whether melted over a bubbling homemade lasagna, topping a crispy, golden pizza, or coated and fried for the perfect crispy, gooey bite, this cheese delivers winning results every time.

While Connor McDavid’s leadership helped guide Team Canada to victory, he wouldn’t be where he is without his teammates. The same goes for cheesemaking—exceptional cheese comes from farmers, cheesemakers, aging specialists, and packaging experts all working together to bring out the best in every wheel.

Join us in celebrating Canada’s win with McDavid Mozzarella, a smooth, creamy cheese that’s as exciting as a game-winning overtime goal.

Available for a limited time only in our Artisan Cheese Shop at Natural Pastures Cheese Company—crafted with passion, teamwork, and the finest Vancouver Island water buffalo milk.

Ricotta natural Pastures cheese

5 Snow Day Recipes for Natural Pastures Ricotta

Fresh Cheese, Recipes

Check out these 5 Recipes to get you excited about having a day home making the coziest meal for tonight on this snow day!

We’ve got something fresh and delicious waiting for you at the Natural Pastures Cheese Company—our fresh ricotta is in stock this week! Made with care right here in Courtenay, BC. It’s light, creamy, with a slight caramel finish and perfect for adding a touch of indulgence to your favorite dishes.

Swing by our Artisan Cheese Shop on McPhee at 6th, open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM, to pick up a tub of this freshly made goodness. Need some culinary inspiration? Keep reading for 5 easy and mouthwatering recipe ideas that showcase just how versatile fresh ricotta can be!

Items in the recipe you can also pick up while you are at the shop.
Natural Pastures Pacific Parmesan, Natural Pastures Cultured Churned Butter, and Jenny’s Crackers

5 Irresistible Ricotta Recipes to Elevate Your Culinary Creations

Ricotta cheese, with its creamy texture and mild flavor, is a versatile ingredient that can transform both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer, a comforting main course, or a delightful dessert, ricotta is your go-to ingredient. Here are five irresistible ricotta recipes to inspire your next culinary adventure.

1. Whipped Ricotta with Honey and Fresh Herbs
Perfect as an appetizer or snack.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh herbs (like thyme, basil, or mint), finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whip the ricotta with a hand mixer until light and creamy.
  2. Drizzle in the olive oil and honey, then fold in the fresh herbs.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a delightful, creamy spread.

2. Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A comforting, cheesy classic.
Ingredients:

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture.
  5. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish, arrange the stuffed shells, and top with remaining sauce and mozzarella.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

3. Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Fluffy, zesty, and perfect for brunch or breakfast for dinner!
Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs, separated
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • Butter for cooking

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, combine ricotta, milk, egg yolks, lemon zest, and juice.
  3. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold into the batter.
  5. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Pour batter to form pancakes and cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden.
  6. Serve with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.

4. Ricotta Gnocchi
Light, pillowy gnocchi with a delicate flavor.
Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese, drained
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper.
  2. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, divide into portions, and roll into ropes.
  4. Cut into 1-inch pieces and lightly dust with flour.
  5. Boil salted water and cook gnocchi until they float to the surface (2-3 minutes).
  6. Serve with your favorite sauce, like brown butter and sage or marinara.

5. Ricotta Cheesecake
A creamy, slightly tangy dessert that’s lighter than traditional cheesecake.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, beat ricotta and sugar until smooth.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
  4. Stir in vanilla, lemon zest, and flour.
  5. Pour into a greased springform pan.
  6. Bake for 50-60 minutes until set and lightly golden.
  7. Cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Ricotta cheese isn’t just for lasagna—its versatility shines in sweet and savory dishes alike. Try these recipes and discover new ways to enjoy this creamy, delightful ingredient. What’s your favorite ricotta recipe?
Post it to Instagram with #Findnaturalpasturescheese so we can check out your creations!
Have a great snow day Comox Valley!