ROASTED CARROTS WITH WHIPPED RICOTTA AND HOT HONEY
These roasted carrots are perfectly caramelized, served with creamy whipped ricotta and drizzled with spicy hot honey. The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy makes this dish a showstopper at any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
For the Roasted Carrots:
- 1 lb baby carrots peeled and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme optional
For the Whipped Ricotta:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Hot Honey:
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust for heat preference
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Carrots:
- Toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme (if using). Spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast the Carrots:
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the carrots are tender and caramelized at the edges.
Whip the Ricotta:
- In a food processor, blend the ricotta cheese with olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Make the Hot Honey:
- In a small saucepan, combine honey and red pepper flakes. Heat over low until warm and the pepper flakes have infused the honey.
Assemble the Dish:
- Spread the whipped ricotta on a platter. Arrange the roasted carrots on top and drizzle with hot honey.
Notes
Make Ahead:
The whipped ricotta can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Roasting the carrots can also be done ahead of time, then reheated before serving. Customizing the Flavor:
Add a dash of cinnamon or cumin to the carrots for an additional layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of honey for varying levels of sweetness. Serving Suggestions:
These roasted carrots make an excellent side dish for roasted meats or fish. They’re also great as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread or salad. Allergy-Friendly Options:
For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free ricotta alternative for the whipped ricotta.
The whipped ricotta can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Roasting the carrots can also be done ahead of time, then reheated before serving. Customizing the Flavor:
Add a dash of cinnamon or cumin to the carrots for an additional layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of honey for varying levels of sweetness. Serving Suggestions:
These roasted carrots make an excellent side dish for roasted meats or fish. They’re also great as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread or salad. Allergy-Friendly Options:
For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free ricotta alternative for the whipped ricotta.