Name: Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 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; 1/4 cup runny honey; 1 teaspoon spicy sauce; 1/2 teaspoon crushed chili flakes; 1 to 2 teaspoons freshly chopped rosemary; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

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If you’re looking for a delicious appetizer with a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy, this Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is a must-try! It’s incredibly easy to whip up and will leave your guests coming back for more.

Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how this dip combines the rich, smooth texture of fresh ricotta cheese with the warmth of spicy honey and the crunchy texture of walnuts. The subtle tang from the lemon zest and juice adds a refreshing contrast, while the spicy sauce and chili flakes bring just the right amount of heat. The result is a mouthwatering dip that’s both savory and sweet, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

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
1/4 cup runny honey
1 teaspoon spicy sauce
1/2 teaspoon crushed chili flakes
1 to 2 teaspoons freshly chopped rosemary
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

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 these ingredients on high speed until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Once blended, spread the whipped ricotta in a shallow bowl and set it aside for the next steps.
Prepare the Honey Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the liquid honey, hot sauce, and chili flakes until fully combined. This will create a sweet and spicy drizzle that adds a burst of flavor to the ricotta.
Assemble the Dish
Drizzle the prepared honey mixture over the smooth ricotta in the bowl. Then, top the whipped ricotta with chopped walnuts and a sprinkle of minced rosemary for added texture and aromatic flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
This delightful dish is best served with crackers or crostini. Invite your guests to scoop the delicious whipped ricotta and honey mixture onto the crackers or crostini.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes enough to serve about 4-6 people as a dip. The preparation time is minimal—about 10 minutes—and there’s no cooking involved, making it perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer.

Storage/Reheating

I usually store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for 2-3 days. However, I recommend serving it fresh as the flavors are most vibrant right after it’s made. If you happen to have leftovers, no need to reheat; just serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, you can swap the ricotta for mascarpone or even cream cheese if you prefer a richer, denser texture. However, ricotta gives the dip its lightness and creaminess, so it’s the best choice for this recipe.

Is the dip too spicy for those who can’t handle heat?

The dip has a nice balance of heat, but if you’re concerned about the spice, you can adjust the amount of chili flakes and spicy sauce to suit your taste. I usually start with just a dash and build from there.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ricotta mixture and the honey drizzle ahead of time and store them separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the dip and top with walnuts and rosemary.

What can I serve with this dip?

This dip pairs wonderfully with crackers, crostini, or even vegetable sticks like cucumber or celery. It’s also delicious on a charcuterie board, where it adds a touch of creaminess and spice.

Can I freeze this dip?

While I wouldn’t recommend freezing the dip, as it could alter the texture of the ricotta, you can freeze the honey mixture separately if needed. Just be sure to thaw it before drizzling over the dip.

Conclusion

This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is one of those recipes that I can’t get enough of. It’s simple, but packed with flavor, and I love how the spicy honey contrasts with the creamy ricotta. Whether it’s a small gathering or a big party, this dip is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a little heat and a lot of flavor