Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 9x5 inch metal loaf pan and line the bottom and sides with a strip of parchment paper.

To a large bowl add the butter, sugar and ricotta cheese. Using a handheld mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Reduce the speed to low and add the eggs, the lemon zest, lemon juice and vanilla extract and beat to combine. Add the flour, baking powder and salt. Using a rubber spatula, fold the ingredients together until just combined. Do not over mix. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove to a rack to cool for 1 hour.

Meanwhile in a small bowl combine the berries, 2 tablespoon sugar and salt. using a fork, toss well to combine, mashing the berries slightly with the back of the fork. Allow to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, remaining 2 tablespoons sugar and the vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Dice the 6 slices of cooled lemon loaf and divide evenly among 6 bowls or glasses. Top each serving with some of the strawberry sauce, followed by a scoop of ice cream and a dollop of whipped cream.