Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Recipe
Introduction
This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is a wonderful blend of creamy, tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors. It’s perfect as an appetizer or a snack, offering a unique twist on a classic cheese dip. Simple to prepare and sure to impress guests.
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
Instructions
- Step 1: In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until smooth and creamy. Spread the whipped ricotta in a shallow bowl and set aside.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the runny honey, spicy sauce, and crushed chili flakes until fully combined, creating a sweet and spicy drizzle.
- Step 3: Drizzle the honey mixture over the whipped ricotta. Top with chopped walnuts and a sprinkle of freshly chopped rosemary for texture and aromatic flavor.
- Step 4: Serve the dip with crackers or crostini. Encourage guests to scoop and enjoy the creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh ricotta for the best texture; if your ricotta is dense, add a splash of milk before blending.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes and spicy sauce to suit your preferred heat level.
- Substitute walnuts with toasted pine nuts or pecans for a different crunch.
- Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note.
Storage
Store the ricotta dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the honey drizzle separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness. Reheat gently to room temperature if preferred, but it is best enjoyed chilled.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ricotta mixture and the honey drizzle separately a day in advance. Combine and garnish just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with this spicy ricotta dip?
This dip pairs well with crackers, crostini, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and cucumber for a lighter option.
PrintSpicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Recipe
A creamy and flavorful Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey, combining smooth ricotta cheese whipped with lemon and olive oil, topped with a sweet and spicy honey drizzle, crunchy walnuts, and fragrant rosemary. Perfect as an elegant appetizer spread served with crackers or crostini.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dip 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
Honey Drizzle
- 1/4 cup runny honey
- 1 teaspoon spicy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed chili flakes
Toppings
- 1 to 2 teaspoons freshly chopped rosemary
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
Instructions
- Blend the Ricotta Mixture: In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Transfer the whipped ricotta to a shallow bowl and set aside.
- Prepare the Honey Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the runny honey, spicy sauce, and crushed chili flakes until fully combined to create a sweet and spicy drizzle.
- Assemble the Dish: Drizzle the honey mixture over the smooth ricotta in the bowl. Sprinkle chopped walnuts and freshly minced rosemary over the top to add texture and aromatic flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Spicy Ricotta Dip with crackers or crostini. Invite guests to scoop the creamy ricotta topped with the spicy honey drizzle and crunchy walnuts for a delicious appetizer experience.
Notes
- Use fresh, good-quality ricotta for the creamiest texture.
- The level of spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of hot sauce and chili flakes.
- Allow the dip to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
- Walnuts can be substituted with other nuts like pecans or almonds if preferred.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; drizzle honey just before serving.
Keywords: ricotta dip, spicy ricotta, hot honey, appetizer, Italian dip, creamy dip, party food, easy ricotta recipe
