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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.