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Creamy Hot Honey Ricotta Dip

creamy hot honey ricotta dip - featured image

A creamy, sweet, and slightly spicy ricotta dip perfect for easy appetizers, combining whipped ricotta with hot honey, olive oil, lemon zest, and fresh thyme.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) hot honey
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, a pinch
  • ΒΌ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients: measure out 1 cup (240 ml) of whole milk ricotta and set aside. Zest one medium lemon carefully, avoiding the bitter white pith. Chop about 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves.
  2. Whip the ricotta: place the ricotta in a medium mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the ricotta for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and creamy, lighter in color and fluffy.
  3. Add olive oil and lemon zest: pour in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of extra virgin olive oil while continuing to whisk gently. Then fold in the lemon zest, mixing just until combined.
  4. Sweeten and spice: drizzle 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of hot honey over the ricotta mixture. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like it extra spicy, sprinkle in ΒΌ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.
  5. Fold in herbs: gently fold in the chopped thyme with a spatula, distributing it evenly without deflating the texture.
  6. Taste and adjust: give it a quick taste. If it needs more sweetness, add a little extra honey. If the dip feels too thick, stir in a teaspoon of warm water or more olive oil to loosen it up slightly.
  7. Chill or serve immediately: serve right away for fresh flavor, or cover and chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Bring back to room temperature before serving.

Notes

Whip ricotta thoroughly for smooth texture. Adjust salt and honey to taste. If dip is too thick, add olive oil or warm water. Serve at room temperature for best flavor. Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days. Avoid reheating to prevent graininess.

Nutrition

Keywords: ricotta dip, hot honey dip, creamy appetizer, easy dip recipe, party dip, spicy sweet dip