Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Roasted carrots with whipped ricotta and hot honey is a vibrant, flavorful dish that balances the natural sweetness of roasted carrots with creamy ricotta and a spicy-sweet honey drizzle. This simple yet elegant recipe makes an excellent side dish or appetizer, perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Carrots, peeled and trimmed
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Ricotta cheese
• Heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Honey
• Red pepper flakes
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the peeled carrots with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Arrange the carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. While the carrots are roasting, prepare the whipped ricotta. In a bowl, whisk or blend the ricotta with a bit of heavy cream (if using) until smooth and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt.
6. In a small saucepan, gently heat the honey with red pepper flakes until warm and infused, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
7. To serve, spread a generous layer of whipped ricotta on a serving platter. Arrange the roasted carrots on top.
8. Drizzle with the hot honey and garnish with fresh herbs.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Citrus Zest: Add orange or lemon zest to the whipped ricotta for a bright, tangy flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pistachios on top for added texture.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the ricotta with whipped cashew cream and use agave syrup instead of honey.
• Spicier Version: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for more heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the carrots in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. The whipped ricotta can be served cold or brought to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?

Yes, baby carrots can be used. Adjust the roasting time as they may cook faster.

How do I make the ricotta extra creamy?

Blend the ricotta with a little heavy cream or olive oil until smooth.

Is there a substitute for hot honey?

You can mix regular honey with a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to create your own version.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the carrots and prepare the ricotta in advance. Assemble and drizzle with hot honey just before serving.

What herbs work best for garnish?

Fresh parsley, thyme, or dill complement the flavors well.

Can I use flavored honey?

Absolutely! Flavored honeys like citrus or herb-infused honey add an interesting twist.

How do I prevent the carrots from becoming too soft?

Roast at a high temperature and avoid overcooking to maintain a slight bite.

Is this dish served hot or cold?

It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for different occasions.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, roasted parsnips, beets, or sweet potatoes pair well with the whipped ricotta and hot honey.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free ricotta alternative or make a cashew-based whipped spread.

Conclusion

Roasted carrots with whipped ricotta and hot honey is a simple, elegant dish bursting with flavor and texture. The combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy elements makes it a standout side or appetizer that’s sure to impress at any meal. Enjoy this colorful and delicious recipe as part of your next gathering or weeknight dinner.

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