Pour the milk into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the salt and heat the mixture until it reaches a temperature of 185-190 degrees F / 85-87 degrees C.
Once at temperature, reduce the heat to low and stir in the lemon juice.
Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will see the mixture will curdle and begin with the solid portion forming into homemade ricotta cheese.
Place a sieve over a large bowl and lay a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth over the top. Carefully pour the mixture over the cheesecloth and allow it to strain for a few minutes. For “drier,” less creamy ricotta cheese, drain the mixture for 30-60 minutes.
Use your homemade ricotta as a 1:1 substitute for any recipe that calls for ricotta cheese. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.