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Quick Whipped Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Appetizer Recipe

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4 from 10 reviews

This Quick Whipped Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy appetizer perfect for entertaining or a simple snack. Blending fresh ricotta with lemon, olive oil, and seasoning creates a smooth base, while a drizzle of honey mixed with hot sauce and chili flakes adds a sweet heat. Topped with crunchy walnuts and fresh rosemary, it’s ideal for serving with crackers or crostini.

Ingredients

Ricotta Dip

  • 2 cups fresh ricotta (about 475g)
  • Zest from half a lemon
  • Juice from half a lemon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Pinch of ground pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Hot Honey Topping

  • 1/4 cup liquid honey
  • 1 tsp hot sauce
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes

Garnish

  • 12 tsp fresh minced rosemary
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions

  1. Blend Ricotta Base: In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the fresh ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, ground pepper, and olive oil. Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Transfer the whipped ricotta to a shallow serving bowl and set aside.
  2. Prepare Hot Honey Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the liquid honey, hot sauce, and chili flakes until well combined. This sweet and spicy sauce will add a vibrant kick to the creamy ricotta.
  3. Assemble and Garnish: Drizzle the honey mixture evenly over the whipped ricotta. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and fresh minced rosemary on top to add texture and a fragrant herbaceous note.
  4. Serve: Serve the dip immediately with crackers or crostini as an appetizer or snack. Enjoy the balance of creamy, sweet, spicy, and crunchy flavors.

Notes

  • Use fresh ricotta for the best creamy texture; draining excess whey beforehand can make it thicker.
  • Adjust the hot sauce and chili flakes quantity to taste depending on preferred spice level.
  • For a nuttier flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before chopping.
  • This dip can be made a few hours ahead and chilled; bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Serve with a variety of breads, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for a versatile appetizer.