Create an elegant appetizer quickly with this creamy whipped ricotta dip, perfectly balanced with a sweet and spicy hot honey topping. This recipe is simple to prepare and ideal for entertaining.
Author:Cat
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:5 min
Total Time:15 min
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:No-Bake/Food Processor
Cuisine:Modern American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese, drained if very wet
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup honey
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
Optional garnish: fresh thyme leaves or chopped toasted walnuts
For serving: crostini, pita chips, or crackers
Instructions
Prepare the hot honey: In a small saucepan, combine the honey and red pepper flakes. Heat over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the honey is warm and the pepper flakes have infused the flavor. Remove from heat and set aside.
Whip the ricotta: Place the drained ricotta cheese, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper into a food processor. Process for 1 to 2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides, until the mixture is completely smooth and airy.
Assemble the dip: Transfer the whipped ricotta to a shallow serving bowl. Use the back of a spoon to create a slight well or swirl in the center.
Finish and serve: Drizzle the warm hot honey evenly over the top of the ricotta. Garnish with fresh thyme or toasted walnuts, if using. Serve immediately with your choice of dippers.
Notes
Drain the ricotta well before whipping; excess liquid makes the dip watery. Press it between paper towels for 10 minutes if needed.
For a gluten-free appetizer, serve with vegetable sticks or gluten-free crackers.
This dip works well as a gourmet cheese spread on toasted sourdough bread.