Spicy Honey Ricotta Dip with Fresh Herbs and Crostini Recipe
This elegant whipped ricotta appetizer features creamy ricotta cheese blended with olive oil and subtle spices, topped with a warm, spicy-sweet honey drizzle. Perfect for serving with crostini, pita chips, or fresh vegetable slices, this dish is a sophisticated starter suitable for entertaining or casual snacking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Ricotta Dip
- 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
Hot Honey Drizzle
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce or chili oil
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
To Serve
- 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
- Whip the Ricotta: Add the ricotta cheese, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder to a food processor. Blend for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you don’t have a food processor, whisk vigorously by hand or use a hand mixer until the consistency is light and whipped.
- Make the Hot Honey: In a small saucepan, gently warm the honey along with the hot sauce or chili oil and chili flakes. Stir continuously and heat the mixture just until it is warm and the flavors have infused, being careful not to boil.
- Plate the Dip: Spread the whipped ricotta onto a shallow serving dish. Use the back of a spoon to create decorative swirls and texture on the surface for an elegant presentation.
- Garnish and Serve: Drizzle the warm hot honey evenly over the whipped ricotta. Sprinkle with freshly cracked pepper and, if desired, add lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or chives on top. Serve alongside crostini, pita chips, sweet peppers, cucumber slices, or on a charcuterie board for a classy appetizer.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of chili flakes to control the heat level of the dip and honey drizzle.
- For a dairy-free option, try substituting ricotta with a smooth vegan spreadable cheese.
- Serving this dip slightly chilled or at room temperature works best for optimal flavors and texture.
- Use fresh herbs and lemon zest to brighten and add complexity to the dish.
- This appetizer pairs well with a crisp white wine or light sparkling beverage.
Keywords: whipped ricotta, hot honey dip, Italian appetizer, ricotta cheese dip, easy party appetizer, crostini topping
