chef chicas

MarylandWed

i make the san giorgio ziti and my h really likes it. it's a good dish for us because h doesn't miss the meat. problem is i find it bland. i think the sauce and seasings are fine, but i always wish it were more cheesy. is there a different cheese i can use that's more flavorful? it calls for mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan. would marscapone help in place of the ricotta? i have never had it but i know it's more expensive. any other suggestions? tia!

*city bride*

Try adding a dash of salt, pepper and a grind of nutmeg to the ricotta. I know the nutmeg sounds odd, but it's my secret ingredient. And you can definitely try marscapone, but it's a very delicate flavour.

xDanniellex

Marscapone seems like a sweet cheese.  I know Giada is always adding it to desserts she makes. 

A little bit of cheddar wouldn't be bad to add.  

Bella in CT

*city bride*:

Try adding a dash of salt, pepper and a grind of nutmeg to the ricotta. I know the nutmeg sounds odd, but it's my secret ingredient.

I was thinking the same thing.  A little S&P make a world of difference.

I wouldn't do marscapone - it's pretty bland and won't add much (except calories).

kokomama

I second the nutmeg.  I would maybe add some pecorino romano or asiago as well - they are both more zingy cheeses.

buckeyethor

It is amazing what a little salt and pepper will do. I add a little crushed red pepper flake for a bit of zing.

MarylandWed

hmmmm... well the recipe already calls for salt and pepper. i guess i could add some more but i think i might try the cheddar, asiago (and the other cheese koko mentioned) instead. i feel like it's seasoned find but it needs a more flavorful cheese. thanks for the advice on the marscapone, too! i definitely won't go that route.