Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey

Delight your taste buds with this simple yet sophisticated recipe for roasted carrots paired with creamy whipped ricotta and a drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey. This dish is a perfect balance of earthy, creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors, making it ideal for gatherings or as a flavorful side for everyday meals.

Why Youโ€™ll Love This Recipe

  • Elegant yet simple:ย The presentation is stunning, yet the recipe is straightforward to make.
  • Flavorful contrast:ย The combination of roasted carrots, creamy ricotta, and hot honey creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
  • Versatile:ย Works as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light main course.
  • Customizable:ย Easily adjust the spice level of the hot honey or experiment with different garnishes.

Ingredients

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

  • Carrots, trimmed and peeled
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Heavy cream (optional, for whipping)
  • Honey
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish

Directions

  1. Prepare the carrots:ย Preheat your oven to 425ยฐF (220ยฐC). Toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  2. Roast the carrots:ย Roast the carrots for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
  3. Whip the ricotta:ย While the carrots roast, blend the ricotta cheese in a food processor or with a hand mixer until smooth. Add a splash of heavy cream if you prefer a lighter, fluffier texture.
  4. Make the hot honey:ย In a small saucepan, warm the honey over low heat and stir in red pepper flakes. Let it infuse for a few minutes, then remove from heat.
  5. Assemble the dish:ย Spread the whipped ricotta onto a serving platter. Arrange the roasted carrots on top, drizzle with hot honey, and garnish with fresh herbs.
  6. Serve:ย Serve immediately while the carrots are warm, or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings:ย 4-6 as a side dish
  • Prep Time:ย 10 minutes
  • Cook Time:ย 25-30 minutes
  • Total Time:ย 35-40 minutes

Variations

  • Cheese options:ย Swap the ricotta with goat cheese or mascarpone for a different creamy base.
  • Vegetable alternatives:ย Try this method with parsnips, sweet potatoes, or squash.
  • Spice it up:ย Add a pinch of cayenne to the hot honey for an extra kick.
  • Herbaceous twist:ย Experiment with garnishing the dish with dill, cilantro, or mint.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage:ย Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating:ย Warm the carrots in a 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) oven until heated through. Reassemble with whipped ricotta and hot honey just before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make the whipped ricotta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the whipped ricotta up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a quick stir before using.

2. Is there a substitute for hot honey?

If you donโ€™t have hot honey, mix regular honey with a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to create a similar effect.

3. What type of carrots work best?

Both regular and baby carrots work well. If using baby carrots, reduce the roasting time slightly.

4. Can I use store-bought ricotta?

Yes, but for the best texture and flavor, choose high-quality, fresh ricotta.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

6. How can I adjust the spice level?

Simply add more or less red pepper flakes to the hot honey based on your preference.

7. What can I serve this dish with?

Pair it with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty grain salad for a complete meal.

8. Can I make the carrots in advance?

Roasted carrots can be made ahead and reheated, but they are best served fresh for optimal texture.

9. What other toppings can I use?

Consider adding toasted nuts, crumbled feta, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.

10. Can I use a different oil for roasting?

Yes, you can use avocado oil, melted butter, or any neutral cooking oil.

Conclusion

Roasted carrots with whipped ricotta and hot honey is a stunning dish that combines simplicity with gourmet appeal. Itโ€™s a versatile recipe that can adapt to different occasions and preferences, ensuring it becomes a staple in your recipe collection. Try it today and impress your family and friends with this delicious and elegant creation.

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Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey

Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey is a delightful dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted carrots with creamy ricotta and a touch of spicy honey. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light appetizer.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Roasted Carrots:

  • 1 pound (450g) baby carrots or heirloom carrots
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Whipped Ricotta:

  • 1 cup (225g) ricotta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Pinch of salt

For the Hot Honey:

  • 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Optional Toppings:

  • 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
  • Fresh thyme leaves
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Carrots:
    • Preheat the oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC).
    • In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
    • Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
    • Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
  2. Make the Whipped Ricotta:
    • In a food processor, blend the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
    • Set aside at room temperature.
  3. Prepare the Hot Honey:
    • In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey and red pepper flakes.
    • Warm gently for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently; do not boil.
    • Remove from heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar.
    • Let cool slightly.
  4. Assemble the Dish:
    • Spread the whipped ricotta on a serving platter.
    • Arrange the roasted carrots on top.
    • Drizzle with the hot honey.
    • Sprinkle with chopped pistachios, fresh thyme leaves, and parsley, if desired.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes in the hot honey to control the spice level.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute the ricotta with a plant-based alternative.
  • This dish pairs well with roasted meats or can be served as a vegetarian main course.

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