Make the dates. Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and the dates. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, tossing until they get caramelized on the outside. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Make the oil. Add the remaining oil, honey, basil, pistachios and salt. Mix to combine. Set aside.
Make the ricotta. Mix the ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt together with a hand mixer or a whisk.
Spread the ricotta onto a plate, and create a divot in the middle to add the oil. Add the oil to the center then drizzle the top with the remaining. Add the dates, extra basil, lemon zest and salt.
