Ricotta Dessert (No-Bake) – Semi Freddo

Ricotta dessert with meringues, that’s a (no-bake) frozen semi freddo dessert I can eat any day. Especially hot summer days!

And if you like the 2xx protein (ricotta and egg whites) combo, you’ll love this low-sugar healthy dessert.

I added a lemon custard because that’s the fruit tasty season we’re in. And some toasty coconut vibes that pairs well. It’s light. And it looks light.

The lemony color and egg white color is so pretty.

Btw, lemons are citrus and are actually a winter fruit. 🍋

But they are enjoyed in desserts in summery, so you can enjoy lemons year round like you can bananas.

And if none are at hand, this would be delicious with simply raw honey or a vanilla extract. Or your blue or red berries. You decide!

And you can make this dessert so easy, and as easy as you can put together food layers in a breakfast parfait.

Here, with a dollop of smooth ricotta and pillowy light egg whites combined, you’ve got a summery low-fat dessert to enjoy!

And when you freeze your dessert, then you can a delightful frozen (semi freddo) dessert good for balmy hot days when you want to peel off layers and jump in the water. 

I first heard about the half cold dessert when I was consulting with an Italian restaurant in Capitol Hill where the food was freshly prepared daily by a Tuscan chef.

And I had seen half spoon decorative (and tasty) smears on dessert plates… in lieu of ice cream. The semi freddo held up better (after all it’s half cold!) and didn’t slide off of a plate like ice cream does, when the melty temperature hits.

But if you’re not near authentic Italian eats, then making this frozen dessert can become your new home gelato flavor wheel of choice.

This is a gelato wheel I saw out and about..

And using a wheel as inspiration, the best part of this ricotta semi freddo recipe is you don’t need an ice cream machine or special gelato maker to make this semi freddo ricotta dessert! You just need a freezer and some basic kitchen tools.

Gotta love that this is one freddo you don’t need to be ‘fraidy of!

Also check out these lighter (great for summer!) desserts, that are restaurant delicious!