Elevate your next gathering with Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey, a quick and crowd-pleasing appetizer that balances creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors. This creamy ricotta appetizer comes together in just 10 minutes, using simple ingredients for a vibrant dip that’s perfect for parties or casual snacking. Serve with crusty bread or veggies for a delightful treat that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 10 minutes, ideal for last-minute entertaining.
- Flavor Explosion: Creamy ricotta, sweet honey, and a spicy kick in every bite.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh herbs.
- Make-Ahead: Prep ahead and store for effortless hosting.
- Versatile: Pairs with a variety of dippers for any occasion.
Ingredients for Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey
Here’s what you need for this creamy ricotta appetizer (serves 6–8):
- 2 cups (475g) whole milk ricotta cheese
- Zest and juice from ½ lemon (about 1 tbsp juice)
- ¼ tsp (1g) fine sea salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
- ¼ cup (60ml) runny honey
- 1 tsp (5ml) hot sauce (e.g., sriracha or Frank’s)
- ½ tsp (1g) crushed chili flakes
- 1–2 tsp (2–4g) freshly chopped rosemary
- ¼ cup (30g) chopped walnuts
Equipment
- Food processor or blender
- Small mixing bowl
- Shallow serving bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula
Ingredient Tips
- Use high-quality, whole milk ricotta for a creamy texture; strain if watery.
- Adjust hot sauce and chili flakes for your preferred spice level.
- Fresh rosemary adds aroma; thyme or sage can substitute.
- Walnuts provide crunch; pecans or pumpkin seeds work for variety.
- Runny honey blends best; warm slightly if too thick.
Directions for Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey
Let’s make this creamy ricotta appetizer—quick, flavorful, and perfect for sharing!
Blend Ricotta Mixture
In a food processor, I combine 2 cups ricotta, zest and juice from ½ lemon, ¼ tsp salt, ⅛ tsp pepper, and 1 tbsp olive oil. I blend on high for 1–2 minutes until smooth and creamy, then spread into a shallow serving bowl.
Prepare Hot Honey
In a small bowl, I mix ¼ cup honey, 1 tsp hot sauce, and ½ tsp chili flakes until fully combined.
Assemble Dip
I drizzle the hot honey mixture over the ricotta, then sprinkle with ¼ cup chopped walnuts and 1–2 tsp chopped rosemary.
Serve
I serve immediately with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies like cucumber and bell peppers.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
- Calories: ~180–200 kcal per serving (⅛ of recipe)
- Macros per Serving: 12g carbs, 6g protein, 12g fat, 1g fiber
Variations
Try these twists on this recipe:
- Milder Flavor: Skip chili flakes and use plain honey, inspired by LaylaCooks’ The Best Peach Sorbet.
- Nut-Free: Swap walnuts for roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
- Herb Swap: Use fresh thyme or basil instead of rosemary.
- Citrus Twist: Replace lemon with lime zest and juice for a different zing.
- Cheese Alternative: Blend cottage cheese until smooth or use mascarpone.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with LaylaCooks’ Hibiscus Iced Tea for a refreshing drink.
- Serve with LaylaCooks’ Feta Watermelon Cucumber Salad for a light side.
- Enjoy alongside LaylaCooks’ Pumpkin Scones for a festive spread.
Storage
I store the ricotta dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, keeping the hot honey separate in a jar at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Before serving, I let the dip sit at room temperature for 30 minutes and stir if separated, then drizzle with honey and add toppings.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Serve in a shallow bowl with dippers arranged on a rustic board.
- Garnish: Add extra rosemary or a pinch of chili flakes for color.
- Pairing: Try with LaylaCooks’ Sweet Potato Toast for a savory twist.
- Portion Size: 2–3 tbsp per person with dippers.
- Occasions: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or casual snacking.
FAQs
Why is my dip watery?
Drain ricotta in a cheesecloth-lined strainer for 30 minutes before blending.
Can I use store-bought hot honey?
Yes, use ¼ cup hot honey and skip the honey, hot sauce, and chili flakes.
How do I make it less spicy?
Reduce hot sauce to ½ tsp or omit chili flakes for a milder flavor.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use blended cottage cheese or plant-based ricotta; adjust seasoning as needed.
How do I get a smooth texture?
Let ricotta reach room temperature and blend thoroughly in a food processor.
More Delicious Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love
- Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks
- Air Fryer Eggplant Asian Style
- Smoked Mexican Street Corn Dip
- Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Conclusion
Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is a quick, flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. This creamy ricotta appetizer blends sweet, spicy, and savory notes for a crowd-pleasing dish. Try this easy recipe and wow your guests!
Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey
Ingredients
- 2 cups 475g whole milk ricotta cheese
- Zest and juice from ½ lemon about 1 tbsp juice
- ¼ tsp 1g fine sea salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp 15ml olive oil
- ¼ cup 60ml runny honey
- 1 tsp 5ml hot sauce (e.g., sriracha or Frank’s)
- ½ tsp 1g crushed chili flakes
- 1 –2 tsp 2–4g freshly chopped rosemary
- ¼ cup 30g chopped walnuts
Instructions
Blend Ricotta Mixture
- In a food processor, I combine 2 cups ricotta, zest and juice from ½ lemon, ¼ tsp salt, ⅛ tsp pepper, and 1 tbsp olive oil. I blend on high for 1–2 minutes until smooth and creamy, then spread into a shallow serving bowl.
Prepare Hot Honey
- In a small bowl, I mix ¼ cup honey, 1 tsp hot sauce, and ½ tsp chili flakes until fully combined.
Assemble Dip
- I drizzle the hot honey mixture over the ricotta, then sprinkle with ¼ cup chopped walnuts and 1–2 tsp chopped rosemary.
Serve
- I serve immediately with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies like cucumber and bell peppers.
Notes
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