Print

Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Recipe

Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Recipe

4.9 from 12 reviews

This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is a quick and easy appetizer featuring creamy fresh ricotta cheese blended with lemon zest, olive oil, and a touch of spice from a homemade hot honey drizzle. Perfectly balanced with sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, it’s ideal for last-minute entertaining or as a delicious addition to any cheese board.

Ingredients

Scale

Ricotta Base

  • 2 cups fresh ricotta cheese (around 475g)
  • Grated zest from half a lemon
  • Juice from half a lemon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • A dash of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Hot Honey Drizzle

  • 1/4 cup runny honey
  • 1 teaspoon spicy sauce (such as hot sauce)
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed chili flakes

Garnish

  • 1 to 2 teaspoons freshly chopped rosemary
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

Instructions

  1. Blend the Ricotta Mixture: In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Spread the whipped ricotta in a shallow bowl and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Honey Mixture: In a small bowl, stir together the runny honey, spicy sauce, and crushed chili flakes until fully combined, creating a sweet and spicy drizzle.
  3. Assemble the Dish: Drizzle the prepared hot honey mixture evenly over the whipped ricotta. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and freshly minced rosemary on top for added texture and aromatic flavor.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the dip with crackers, crostini, warm pita triangles, crusty bread, or fresh vegetables. Let guests scoop up the creamy, sweet, and spicy dip and enjoy the flavorful combination.

Notes

  • Use high-quality whole milk fresh ricotta for the best creamy texture. If it’s watery, drain it using a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth for 30 minutes before using.
  • If fresh lemon isn’t available, substitute with lime juice or 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar.
  • Store the ricotta dip and hot honey separately; the dip keeps refrigerated up to 3 days in an airtight container, and the honey mixture can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
  • Bring the ricotta dip to room temperature about 30 minutes before serving to achieve the best texture and flavor.
  • Customize the garnish with nuts like pecans, pistachios, or pumpkin seeds for nut-free option, and use fresh thyme or sage instead of rosemary if preferred.
  • Be careful not to overheat the honey when mixing, as it can become bitter.

Nutrition

Keywords: ricotta dip, hot honey, spicy dip, appetizer, party dip, easy dip recipe, creamy ricotta, sweet and spicy