When last-minute guests are on the way and you need something fast but impressive, this spicy ricotta dip swoops in like a secret weapon. It’s creamy and zesty, plus the warm honey drizzle adds a final burst of flavor. I first made this for a neighborhood potluck, and it vanished in minutes people were literally scraping the bowl. Whether you’re building a casual snack board or looking to wow your dinner guests, this one’s a keeper.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Ricotta Dip
This dip is a flavor bomb in the best way. Creamy ricotta blends with lemon for brightness, and the warm honey drizzle brings a mellow heat that sneaks up on you in a good way. It’s ready in 10 minutes flat and uses ingredients you likely have on hand.
Best of all, it looks fancy enough for a holiday spread but takes zero effort. It’s make-ahead friendly, pairs well with everything from crackers to fresh veggies, and works in every season.
Ingredients
Pantry & Fresh
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh ricotta cheese | 2 cups |
| Lemon zest | From 1/2 lemon |
| Lemon juice | From 1/2 lemon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | Dash |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Runny honey | 1/4 cup |
| Spicy sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Crushed chili flakes | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh rosemary | 1–2 teaspoons, chopped |
| Chopped walnuts | 1/4 cup |
Substitutions for Ricotta Dip
If you don’t have ricotta, blended cottage cheese works surprisingly well. For a tangier twist, try full-fat Greek yogurt or mascarpone. Lime juice or white wine vinegar can sub in for lemon. If you’re out of walnuts, try pistachios or even roasted pepitas instead. And if rosemary’s not your thing, fresh thyme adds a nice herbal note.
Step-by-Step: Spicy Ricotta Dip in 10 Minutes
This creamy, crowd-pleasing dip comes together fast, no cooking required. Just blend, stir, drizzle, and serve. Here’s exactly how to make spicy ricotta dip in under 10 minutes.
- Blend the Ricotta Base
Combine ricotta, lemon zest, juice, salt, pepper, and olive oil in a food processor. Blend until smooth and fluffy.
- Mix the Spicy Honey
In a small bowl, stir together honey, chili flakes, and spicy sauce. Warm slightly if needed to loosen the texture.
- Assemble the Dip
Spread the whipped ricotta into a shallow bowl. Drizzle with the spicy honey and top with walnuts and rosemary.
- Let It Rest and Serve
Let sit at room temp for 15–30 minutes before serving. Serve with crostini, crackers, or raw veggies.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Ricotta Dip
Let the ricotta sit out for 30 minutes before blending to avoid a dense texture. In addition, strain watery ricotta using cheesecloth for 20–30 minutes. Add lemon juice gradually, some ricotta brands are saltier than others. Don’t overheat the honey; it’ll turn bitter. Finally, the honey mixture can be made ahead and stored at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Variations for Your Spicy Ricotta Spread
For a dairy-free version, use blended cashew cheese or vegan ricotta. To make it gluten-free, pair with GF crackers or veggie sticks. For extra flavor, add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers. You could also swap chili flakes for chipotle powder. If you’re looking for more protein, stir in white beans or add crispy pancetta.
Serve This Hot Honey Ricotta Dip With
This spicy ricotta dip pairs perfectly with toasted baguette, pita chips, or sweet potato crisps. For example, try it with sliced cucumbers, carrots, or colorful bell peppers. You can also serve it on a party board next to olives, grapes, or even Mango Cherry Protein Punch for a balanced spread.
How to Store Ricotta Dip Safely
Store the dip and honey mixture separately. The ricotta base keeps for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge. The honey mixture lasts 2 weeks at room temp. For food safety, refer to the USDA refrigeration chart.
Spicy Ricotta Dip Nutrition Highlights
Each 1/4 cup serving has about 180 calories, 6g protein, 13g fat, and 10g carbs. This dip is vegetarian and gluten-free. Learn more about healthy fats or compare ricotta types using USDA ricotta grading.
FAQs
To give ricotta a kick, mix in chili flakes, spicy honey, harissa, or even a little garlic oil. Citrus zest and fresh herbs also bring brightness and depth to the mild cheese.
Serve it with crostini, pita, or raw veggies like carrots and cucumbers. It also works on charcuterie boards, next to sweet fruits like figs, or with salty nuts for contrast.
Blend ricotta with lemon juice, zest, salt, and olive oil until smooth. Top it with a warm mix of honey and chili flakes, plus toasted nuts and herbs for texture and flavor.
Hand-dipped ricotta is scooped manually from the curds, giving it a creamier texture and richer flavor than mass-produced versions. It’s often found at specialty shops or farmers markets.
More Like This
If you’re building a full menu, try What Does a Chicken Salad Contain? for a savory pairing. Want something sweet? These Lemon Cakes from The Great Gatsby offer a nostalgic treat. Need a warm holiday side? Try Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing or the rich and hearty Root Vegetable Gratin. For a comforting carb, bake up these Garlic Bread Rolls, they’re perfect alongside dips. Or go lighter with this Vegetable Stir Fry for Dinner. To top it off, sip a refreshing Mango Cherry Protein Punch and enjoy the full spread.
Print
Spicy Ricotta Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1.5 cups (6 servings)
Description
Creamy ricotta whipped with lemon and olive oil, topped with a warm drizzle of spicy honey and finished with walnuts and rosemary.
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
Instructions
- Blend ricotta, lemon juice, zest, salt, pepper, and olive oil until smooth.
- Mix honey, chili flakes, and hot sauce in a small bowl.
- Spread ricotta in serving bowl and drizzle with spicy honey.
- Top with chopped walnuts and rosemary, then serve.
Notes
- Let ricotta come to room temperature before blending for a smoother dip.
- Strain watery ricotta for 30 minutes to avoid separation.
- Make the honey mixture ahead and store separately for freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Save This Recipe for Later
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