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Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 14 reviews
  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 minutes
  • Total Time: 8 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is an elegant and flavorful appetizer perfect for entertaining. Creamy whipped ricotta is infused with a touch of garlic and chili flakes, then topped with a warm drizzle of honey blended with hot sauce for a tantalizing sweet-heat contrast. Served with crostini or fresh vegetables, it’s a simple yet classy dip that elevates any gathering.


Ingredients

Dip Ingredients

  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
  • Optional: fresh herbs (thyme, basil, or chives)
  • Optional: lemon zest for garnish

Hot Honey Drizzle

  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce or chili oil
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes

To Serve

  • Crostini, pita chips, or sliced baguette
  • Sweet peppers or cucumber slices


Instructions

  1. Whip the Ricotta: Add the ricotta cheese, olive oil, salt, and optional garlic powder into a food processor. Blend for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. If you don’t have a food processor, you can whisk vigorously by hand or use a hand mixer to achieve the same creamy texture.
  2. Make the Hot Honey: In a small saucepan, gently warm the honey together with the hot sauce or chili oil and chili flakes. Stir slowly and heat just until the mixture becomes warm and the flavors meld together, being careful not to boil or burn the honey.
  3. Plate the Dip: Spread the whipped ricotta onto a shallow serving dish and use the back of a spoon to create decorative swirls across the surface. Then, drizzle the warm hot honey mixture evenly over the ricotta for a beautiful glossy finish.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly cracked pepper, optional lemon zest, and fresh herbs of your choice over the top for added aroma and flavor. Serve immediately with crostini, pita chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable slices like sweet peppers or cucumbers on the side.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of chili flakes and hot sauce to control the level of spiciness according to your preference.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute ricotta with a plant-based ricotta alternative, but note the flavor and texture will differ.
  • Use fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or chives to brighten the flavor and add color.
  • The dip is best served fresh but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • This dip pairs well with a variety of bread and vegetable options, making it versatile for different platters.