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Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect as a side or appetizer. The carrots are caramelized to perfection, paired with creamy, fluffy ricotta, and finished with a sweet and spicy drizzle of hot honey for an irresistible balance of flavors.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Roasted Carrots:

  • 1 1/2 lbs carrots, peeled and cut into halves or quarters lengthwise
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)

For the Whipped Ricotta:

  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or more for desired consistency)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Hot Honey:

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 12 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to preferred spice level)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick)

Garnish:

  • Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or mint (chopped)
  • Crushed pistachios, walnuts, or almonds (optional, for crunch)

Instructions

  • Roast the Carrots:
    • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • Toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
    • Spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
  • Make the Whipped Ricotta:
    • In a food processor or with a hand mixer, combine ricotta, heavy cream, olive oil, and lemon zest.
    • Blend until smooth and creamy, about 1–2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  • Prepare the Hot Honey:
    • In a small saucepan, gently warm the honey over low heat. Stir in red pepper flakes and apple cider vinegar (if using).
    • Simmer for 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly. The longer it sits, the spicier it gets.
  • Assemble the Dish:
    • Spread the whipped ricotta on a serving platter.
    • Arrange the roasted carrots on top.
    • Drizzle generously with hot honey.
    • Garnish with fresh herbs and nuts if desired.
  • Serve:
    • Enjoy warm or at room temperature as a side dish or appetizer.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Whipped ricotta and hot honey can be made a day in advance. Store in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes in the hot honey to control heat.
  • Vegan Option: Substitute ricotta with whipped cashew cream and use maple syrup with chili flakes for the hot honey alternative.