Name: Spicy Honey Ricotta Dip with Fresh Herbs and Crostini Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
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; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon hot sauce or chili oil; ½ teaspoon chili flakes; Fresh cracked pepper; Optional: fresh herbs (thyme, basil, or chives); Optional: lemon zest for garnish; Crostini, pita chips, or sliced baguette; Sweet peppers or cucumber slices

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Introduction

This classy ricotta appetizer combines creamy, smooth ricotta with a spicy-sweet hot honey drizzle for a delightful burst of flavor. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for serving with crostini or fresh vegetables, making it an elegant addition to any gathering.

The image shows a close-up of a white bowl filled with a creamy white dip that has a soft, fluffy texture, swirled around in even layers from the outside toward the center. On top of the dip, there is a drizzle of golden yellow olive oil in a spiral pattern, and small bits of reddish-brown crispy flakes scattered mainly in the middle. There are also small green leaves sprinkled across the surface, adding a fresh touch. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a warm light shining from the side, casting soft shadows. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon hot sauce or chili oil
Salt, to taste
Fresh cracked pepper
Optional: fresh herbs (thyme, basil, or chives)
Optional: lemon zest for garnish
Crostini, pita chips, or sliced baguette
Sweet peppers or cucumber slices

Instructions

Step 1: Add ricotta, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder to a food processor. Blend for 1–2 minutes until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, whisk vigorously by hand or use a hand mixer.
Step 2: Warm honey in a small saucepan with hot sauce or chili oil and chili flakes. Stir gently and heat just until warm and infused.
Step 3: Spread whipped ricotta onto a shallow dish. Use the back of a spoon to create swirls for an attractive presentation.
Step 4: Drizzle the warm hot honey over the ricotta. Top with cracked pepper, lemon zest, and fresh herbs if desired.
Step 5: Serve with crostini, pita chips, sweet peppers, cucumber slices, or as part of a charcuterie board.

Tips & Variations

Adjust chili flakes and hot sauce to control the heat level to your preference.
For a dairy-free option, substitute ricotta with a plant-based creamy spread like cashew cheese.
Add a splash of lemon juice to the ricotta mixture for extra brightness.
Try different herbs such as dill or parsley for varied flavor profiles.

Storage

Store the whipped ricotta dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the hot honey separate and drizzle just before serving to maintain its flavor and texture. Reheat the honey gently before serving if needed. The dip is best enjoyed fresh.

How to Serve

The image shows a round white bowl filled with a creamy, white spread that has a smooth texture with small curds, swirled in a spiral pattern. On top of the spread, there is a drizzle of golden olive oil forming concentric circles. Scattered over the surface are small dark red bits that look like spices or chili flakes, and tiny green herb leaves are placed around the center as garnish. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with warm lighting, creating a cozy feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the whipped ricotta up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Keep the hot honey mixture separate and warm it just before serving to keep the flavors fresh.

What can I serve this ricotta dip with?

This dip pairs wonderfully with crostini, pita chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables like sweet peppers and cucumber slices. It’s also a great addition to a charcuterie board.