Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey is a delightful dish that brings together the sweetness of caramelized carrots and the creamy texture of whipped ricotta. Topped with a drizzle of spicy honey, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a unique appetizer. The flavors and textures blend together beautifully, making it a favorite among family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a wonderful way to elevate simple carrots into a stunning dish. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while the whipped ricotta adds richness. The hot honey adds a surprising kick, making every bite exciting. Not only is it tasty, but it’s also colorful and visually appealing. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time for gatherings or weeknight meals.
How to Make Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey
Making Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey is straightforward and simple. Follow these steps to create this delicious dish that will impress anyone at your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) baby carrots or heirloom carrots
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (225g) ricotta cheese
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp chopped pistachios
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
- In a food processor, blend the ricotta, heavy cream, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey and red pepper flakes. Heat gently for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in apple cider vinegar. Let cool slightly.
- Spread the whipped ricotta on a serving platter, creating a smooth base. Arrange the roasted carrots on top of the ricotta. Drizzle the hot honey over the carrots.
- Sprinkle with chopped pistachios, fresh thyme leaves, and parsley for garnish. Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.
How to Serve Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey
Serve the Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey warm. It makes a lovely side dish for roasted meats, or you can enjoy it as a standout appetizer at your next gathering. The presentation on a platter will catch the eye and entice your guests.
How to Store Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The roasted carrots can last for about 3 days, while the whipped ricotta can stay fresh for up to a week. To reheat, pop the carrots in the oven for a few minutes until warm.
Tips to Make Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey
- For extra flavor, try adding garlic or fresh herbs to the roasting carrots.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to get nice caramelization on the carrots.
- If you can’t find baby carrots, use regular carrots cut into sticks for similar sweetness.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding other toppings like crumbled feta cheese, arugula, or even a sprinkle of chili powder for more heat. Mix and match different herbs and spices to suit your taste!
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
2. Is hot honey very spicy?
The heat from the hot honey comes from the red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount to make it milder or spicier depending on your preference.
3. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can roast the carrots and make the whipped ricotta in advance. Just assemble the dish and drizzle with hot honey just before serving for the best taste.
Enjoy your delicious Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey!
Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey
Ingredients
For the roasted carrots
- 1 lb baby carrots or heirloom carrots Can also use regular carrots cut into sticks.
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper To taste
For the whipped ricotta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp lemon zest
For the hot honey
- ¼ cup honey
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes Adjust for heat preference.
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
For garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped pistachios
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- Fresh parsley Optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Roasting
- Spread the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Making the whipped ricotta
- In a food processor, blend the ricotta, heavy cream, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Preparing hot honey
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey and red pepper flakes. Heat gently for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in apple cider vinegar. Let cool slightly.
Assembly
- Spread the whipped ricotta on a serving platter, creating a smooth base. Arrange the roasted carrots on top of the ricotta.
- Drizzle the hot honey over the carrots.
- Sprinkle with chopped pistachios, fresh thyme leaves, and parsley for garnish. Serve warm.
