Ricotta Torta With Herbs

In 'The Complete Italian Vegetarian Cookbook'

• Ready In: 1 hr 40 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1  tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1⁄4 cup  plain breadcrumbs
• 4  cups ricotta cheese
• 1⁄2 cup  freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese
• 3  large eggs, separated
• 1⁄4 cup  minced fresh parsley
• 2  teaspoons  minced fresh sage
• 1  teaspoon  minced fresh rosemary
•  salt
•  fresh ground black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°.
2. Butter a 9-inch springform pan; sprinkle the bread crumbs into the butter pan.
3. Working over the sink, turn the pan to distribute the crumbs around the bottom and sides; shake out the excess crumbs.
4. In a big bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, the egg yolks, parsley, sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Use a spatula to incorporate the ingredients evenly.
6. In another bowl, which is completely free of grease, beat the egg whites until they hold stiff peaks.
7. Fold the beaten whites into the cheese mixture; scrape mixture into the prepared pan, leveling the top with the spatula.
8. Bake until the top of the torta is firm to the touch and golden brown, about 1 hour.
9. Cool to room temperature on a rack; remove the sides of the pan and cut the torta into wedges.
10. Serve a wedge along with a substantial salad for a nice lunch or light dinner.