Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey

Name: Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh ricotta cheese; 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

Published: January 16, 2026

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dip without breaking a sweat.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh ricotta, spicy sauce, and hot honey creates a delightful contrast that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with crackers, veggies, or as a spread on toasted baguette slices for an appetizer that suits any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dip is sure to impress guests at parties, potlucks, or casual get-togethers, making it an ideal choice for entertaining.
Healthier Option: Using fresh ingredients and healthy fats makes this dip a guilt-free indulgence that everyone can enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey, having the right tools at hand can streamline the process. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk or fork
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients thoroughly without spills.
Whisk or fork: These tools help achieve a smooth consistency in the ricotta by blending it well with other components.
Measuring cups & spoons: Accuracy in measurements ensures that each flavor shines through perfectly in your dip.

Ingredients

For the Dip

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

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Make Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh ricotta cheese, grated lemon zest, and lemon juice. Use a whisk or fork to mix until smooth.

Step 2: Add Flavorings

Add in the salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Continue mixing until everything is well incorporated.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Drizzle in the runny honey, followed by the spicy sauce. Stir in the crushed chili flakes. Adjust the spice level to your liking.

Step 4: Finish and Garnish

Fold in the freshly chopped rosemary and sprinkle the top with chopped walnuts.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer your dip to a serving dish. Pair it with your favorite dippers like crackers or vegetable sticks. Enjoy!

How to Serve Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey

Serving your Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is all about enhancing the flavors and making it visually appealing. This dip pairs well with various accompaniments that will delight your guests at any gathering.

With Fresh Vegetables

Carrot sticks – Crunchy and naturally sweet, perfect for dipping.
Cucumber slices – Refreshing and hydrating, they balance the spice.
Bell pepper strips – Vibrant colors add visual appeal and flavor.

On Crackers or Bread

Crostini – Toasted bread slices provide a crunchy base for the creamy dip.
Whole-grain crackers – Nutty flavors complement the ricotta beautifully.
Pita chips – Their texture adds a delightful crunch to every bite.

Topped with Extra Ingredients

Chopped herbs – Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil for added freshness.
Extra chili flakes – For those who love an extra kick, this is a great option.
Drizzle of olive oil – Adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.

How to Perfect Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey

To elevate your Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey, consider these simple tips that will enhance both taste and presentation.

Use fresh ricotta – Fresh ricotta has a creamier texture and richer flavor than store-bought options.
Adjust the spice level – Modify the amount of spicy sauce or chili flakes to suit your preference for heat.
Let it rest – Allow the dip to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Garnish creatively – Use edible flowers or microgreens as a garnish for a stunning presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey

Pairing side dishes with your Spicy Ricotta Dip can create a well-rounded spread that satisfies every palate. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled until tender add a smoky flavor.
Stuffed Mini Peppers – Fill mini sweet peppers with herb cream cheese for a tasty bite-sized treat.
Marinated Olives – A mix of olives marinated in herbs and spices provides a briny contrast to the dip’s creaminess.
Cheese Platter – Include assorted cheeses like aged cheddar or goat cheese for variety; serve alongside crackers.
Hummus – A classic choice that complements the ricotta dip while adding protein and fiber to your spread.
Roasted Chickpeas – Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices create a healthy snack option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential.

Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season their dip properly. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper for the best flavor.
Using low-quality ricotta: Quality matters. Choose fresh ricotta for a creamy texture and rich taste. Store-bought options can vary significantly.
Overdoing the honey: While hot honey adds a nice kick, too much can overpower the other flavors. Start with less and add more to taste as needed.
Neglecting garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or nuts can elevate your dip’s presentation. Don’t skip this step for added visual appeal.
Not letting it sit: Allowing the dip to rest for 10 minutes before serving lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep it in the main compartment, not the door, for best freshness.

Freezing Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Label containers with dates to track freshness easily.

Reheating Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until warm.
Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat while stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey.

Can I use different cheeses in this dip?

You can mix ricotta with other cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese for added flavor and texture.

What can I serve with Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey?

This dip pairs well with fresh vegetables, crackers, or breadsticks. It’s a versatile appetizer!

Is it possible to make this dip vegan?

To create a vegan version, substitute ricotta with plant-based alternatives and use maple syrup instead of honey.

How spicy does this dip get?

The level of spiciness depends on your choice of spicy sauce and chili flakes. Adjust them according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey is an exciting appetizer that combines creamy richness with a hint of heat. It’s perfect for gatherings or casual snacking. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices!