Baked mushrooms stuffed with ricotta (Funghi al forno ripieni di ricotta)

Step 1

This is an incredible version of the old classic we've all tried at some point. You can use one type of mushroom or a mixture, but you will need ones which have a good cap to hold the ricotta filling. Small Portobello or field mushrooms will work well. You can serve this as a starter or as little antipasti munchies. Preheat your oven to 220ºC/425ºF/gas

Step 2

Put your ricotta into a bowl with the lemon zest, chilli and a little salt and pepper. Beat together with a wooden spoon, then fold in your chopped oregano and the Parmesan. Carefully remove the stalks from your mushrooms and discard them (or keep them for making a pasta sauce), then toss the mushroom caps in a little oil, salt and pepper. Lay them upside down on a baking tray so that they can be filled with small amounts of your fantastic ricotta mixture. Carefully spoon in the filling, sprinkle a little Parmesan over the top and bake in the preheated oven till golden – about 15 minutes. Great served on a big plate, sprinkled with some dressed rocket leaves or soft leafy herbs.