Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

Directions

Carefully separate the eggs, placing the yolks and the eggs in separate bowls.

In a squeaky clean mixer bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt at high speed until very frothy. With the mixer still on high, slowly add 1 tablespoon of sugar. Continue beating until stiff peaks form, about 5 minutes. Set aside.

In a bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt until blended. Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and the remaining 1/3 cup of sugar together. Add the ricotta, lemon zest, and lemon juice and whisk until smooth. Stir in the milk until blended.

Add the flour mixture to the egg yolk mixture and stir with a spatula just until combined. Fold in one-third of the beaten egg whites to lighten the batter. Add the remaining egg whites and gently fold until only a few streaks of white remain.

Set a griddle, cast iron pan, or non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and brush with oil. When the pan is hot enough that a flick of water sizzles on contact, use a 1/2-cup measure to scoop the batter and drop onto the pan. With the back of a spoon, spread the batter of each pancake into a 4- to 5-inch round. Keep the temperature of the pan at medium to medium-low. Cook each pancake for 2 to 3 minutes, or until bubbles form on top. Flip and cook for 1 to 2 minutes longer, until the pancakes are cooked through. Serve each batch immediately or transfer the pancakes to a sheet pan in a warm oven to keep warm until ready to serve.

Serve warm with butter, maple syrup and fresh berries.