Category Archives: Fresh Cheese

5 Snow Day Recipes for Natural Pastures Ricotta

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!

40 knots fondue with Natural Pastures Cheese

Fondue at 40 Knots Winery in Comox Valley

Elevate your Fridays with the enchanting experience of Fondue at 40 Knots Winery! Picture yourself surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of our vineyard, nestled in the warmth of their glass-enclosed Aurora Vineyard Terrace. Immerse yourself in the indulgence of Fondue Fridays as they proudly showcase a delectable spread featuring the finest local ingredients.

Owners Layne and Brenda Craig are dedicated to producing clean, ethical wines that reflect the terroir of Vancouver Island. Their commitment to sustainability and quality has made 40 Knots a beloved destination for both locals and visitors, offering a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy exceptional wines and the serene vineyard setting.

Dip into our exquisite Natural Pastures Fondue cheese blend, accompanied by a selection of local delights:

  • Honey Grove Bakery baguette
  • The Pretzel Guyz pretzels
  • Conscious Crackers (GF/Vegan)
  • Tart Granny Smith apples
  • Sweet bell peppers
  • 40 Knots pickled grapes
  • The Butcher’s Block cured meats

At 40 Knots, they embrace the philosophy that “what grows together goes together.” This approach highlights the harmony between our locally crafted cheeses and the bounty of Vancouver Island’s produce. The fondue night features Natural Pastures Cheese Company’s artisan fondue, made right here in the Comox Valley using milk from Vancouver Island cows. This commitment to local sourcing ensures a fresh and flavorful experience that truly embodies the essence of our region.

Here are some HELLO’s and intro’s from the staff! Photos to come I hope! Check back!

Edna is our Event and Decor Specialist at 40 Knots. She is your go to person for booking and helping with your celebration here at our Vineyard. She can be found decorating our beautiful venues or assisting with a wedding in progress and always with a smile on her face.

Hey I’m Kelem, I am the winemaker here at 40 Knots. The synergies of working at 40 Knots Winery and being located where we are on Vancouver Island coincides with my personal beliefs of living a pure life symbiotically with nature and all the beauty it has to offer, including grapes of course.

Hi! I’m Tara. I’m a chef and have had several opportunities to make meals at 40 Knots Winery.  Successful wine pairing will enhance the dining experience- potentially enhance the dining experience- potentially heightening flavours, textures and qualities in the food.  I like to encourage our customers to be more adventurous with their meal planning by providing confidence that their selections will work well together, creating a more memorable experience. Our wines will change how you perceive the taste of your food and your food will change how you perceive the wine!

Hey, I’m Kat. You will find me in the tasting room conversing with our guests, doing lot’s of tastings,and eating lots of Natural Pastures cheeses. I am lucky to be able to work in such a beautiful place and I am grateful for the opportunities to interact and meet new people.

Join 40 Knots Winery for Fondue Fridays and savor the perfect pairing of local flavors in a setting that celebrates the beauty and bounty of our community.

2024 prices are as follows – click to book! Seats are limited.

Unveiling the Charcuterie Wedding Cake Trend: An Inside Look at Spoon & Spade

By Anyssa Jane

 In recent years, the traditional wedding cake has met its match: the charcuterie wedding cake. This delightful trend is capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of couples looking to make their big day uniquely memorable. At the forefront of this delicious movement are Toni and Katie, the dynamic duo behind Spoon & Spade, a small female-owned charcuterie business based in Victoria, Vancouver Island. Their commitment to “farm to table” principles ensures that each charcuterie board not only tastes amazing but also supports local producers and promotes sustainability.

Gone are the days when a multi-tiered, sugar-laden cake was the only option for a wedding centerpiece. Today, many couples are opting for charcuterie wedding cakes, which offer a delectable array of aged and fresh cheeses, cured meats, and gourmet accompaniments. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards celebrating food that is both artisanal and aesthetically pleasing.

One of the primary benefits of a charcuterie wedding cake is its versatility. Unlike traditional cakes, which cater to those with a sweet tooth, charcuterie cakes can appeal to a wide range of palates. They can be customized to include a variety of flavors, from creamy Natural Pastures Comox Brie, as found beside other local artisanal delights in the cake above, to spicy salami and savory prosciutto.  This ensures that every guest finds something they love. Additionally, these cakes are perfect for pairing with wine, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the celebration.

Founded in 2020 by Toni and Katie, Spoon & Spade has quickly become the go-to gourmet charcuterie company in Victoria, Vancouver Island. This female-owned business prides itself on creating beautifully crafted charcuterie boards that elevate any occasion, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. They each bring unique skills to the business: Toni with her Culinary Arts diploma and Katie with her artistic touch and a joint passion for florals and design, making them stand out in the event business.

At Spoon & Spade, the belief is that food brings people together. Their gourmet grazes and event tables include custom-made spreads, jams, jellies, and mustards, all made with the finest ingredients. As more couples embrace the charcuterie wedding cake trend, businesses like Spoon & Spade are at the forefront, offering delicious and visually stunning alternatives to traditional wedding cakes. Toni and Katie’s dedication to quality, sustainability, and local products makes their charcuterie creations a perfect reflection of today’s cultural values.