Elevate your vegetable game with this stunning combination of sweet roasted carrots, creamy whipped ricotta, and spicy-sweet honey. This dish perfectly balances flavors and textures, making it an impressive side dish that’s equally at home on a holiday table or a casual weeknight dinner. The beautiful presentation and sophisticated flavor profile belie just how simple it is to prepare.
Why This Recipe Works
The natural sweetness of roasted carrots pairs beautifully with the light, airy whipped ricotta, while the hot honey adds a sophisticated kick that transforms this dish from simple to sublime. The addition of pistachios provides a delightful crunch, and fresh herbs bring brightness to every bite.
Recipe Card
Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6 as a side dish
Ingredients
For the Roasted Carrots:
- 1 pound (450g) baby carrots or regular carrots, halved lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (3g) smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon (3g) garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon (3g) salt
- ¼ teaspoon (1g) black pepper
For the Whipped Ricotta:
- 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Hot Honey:
- ¼ cup (85g) honey
- ½ teaspoon (1g) red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) apple cider vinegar
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons (16g) chopped pistachios
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Roast the Carrots:
- Toss carrots with olive oil and seasonings
- Arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet
- Roast 20-25 minutes, turning once
- Carrots should be tender and lightly caramelized
- Make the Whipped Ricotta:
- Combine all ingredients in a food processor
- Blend until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes)
- Season to taste
- Prepare the Hot Honey:
- Heat honey and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan
- Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes
- Stir in apple cider vinegar
- Let cool slightly
- Assemble:
- Spread whipped ricotta on a serving platter
- Arrange roasted carrots on top
- Drizzle with hot honey
- Garnish with pistachios and herbs
Pro Tips
- Choose carrots of similar size for even cooking
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure proper caramelization
- Bring ricotta to room temperature for smoother whipping
- Pat ricotta dry with paper towels before whipping
- Make hot honey ahead – it keeps for weeks in an airtight container
Variations and Substitutions
- Rainbow carrots for added visual appeal
- Goat cheese or feta instead of ricotta
- Walnuts or pecans in place of pistachios
- Maple syrup instead of honey (though you’ll lose some heat)
- Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the roasted carrots
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Roasted carrots: Store up to 3 days in refrigerator
- Whipped ricotta: Make up to 2 days ahead
- Hot honey: Keeps for 1 month at room temperature
- Assemble just before serving for best presentation
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 17g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead for a party?
A: Yes! Roast the carrots and prepare the components separately. Reheat carrots briefly in the oven and assemble just before serving.
Q: How do I know when the carrots are done?
A: They should be easily pierced with a fork and have golden-brown caramelized spots.
Q: Can I use regular honey instead of making hot honey?
A: Absolutely, though you’ll miss the subtle heat that makes this dish special. Try adding a pinch of cayenne to regular honey as an alternative.
Q: Is there a dairy-free alternative for the whipped ricotta?
A: Try whipped cashew cream or dairy-free cream cheese for a similar texture and experience.
This elegant vegetable dish combines the earthiness of roasted carrots with creamy ricotta and a sweet-spicy honey drizzle. Perfect for entertaining or elevating your weeknight dinner, it’s a versatile side that pairs beautifully with both meat and vegetarian main courses. The contrast of temperatures, textures, and flavors makes every bite an adventure, while the stunning presentation ensures it will be the talk of any dinner party.
