A savory-sweet delight, this dish artfully combines tender roasted carrots with creamy whipped ricotta and a fiery drizzle of hot honey. It’s a flavorful and visually appealing side that works beautifully for dinner parties or everyday meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Perfect flavor balance: Sweet carrots, creamy cheese, and spicy honey unite in harmony.
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Simple yet elegant: Requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum impact.
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Versatile: Great as a side dish or vegetarian appetizer.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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baby carrots, peeled
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olive oil
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salt and pepper to taste
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ricotta cheese
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honey
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hot sauce (adjust to taste)
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fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
directions
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Preheat the Oven
Set oven to 400 °F (200 °C). -
Prepare the Carrots
Toss peeled baby carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper. -
Roast
Arrange carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized. -
Whip the Ricotta
Using a fork or food processor, whip the ricotta cheese until smooth and fluffy. -
Make Hot Honey
In a small bowl, mix honey and hot sauce. Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to enhance flavor and pourability. -
Assemble
Transfer roasted carrots to a serving dish. Spoon whipped ricotta over them and drizzle with hot honey. -
Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped parsley, if using, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 30 minutes
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Total time: 40 minutes
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Calories: ~180 kcal per serving
Variations
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Add crunch: Sprinkle with toasted nuts like pistachios or walnuts.
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Different cheese: Use goat cheese for a tangier profile.
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Herb twist: Add thyme or rosemary to the carrots before roasting.
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Citrus note: A squeeze of lemon or orange juice can brighten the dish.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 325 °F (160 °C) oven until warmed through. Ricotta may need to be whipped again for optimal texture.
FAQs
Can I use full-size carrots instead of baby carrots?
Yes, just peel and slice them into uniform sticks for even roasting.
What’s the best way to whip ricotta?
Use a food processor or hand mixer for a light, airy texture, though hand-whipping works too.
Is this dish spicy?
It’s mildly spicy; adjust hot sauce levels to suit your preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can roast the carrots and whip the ricotta in advance. Assemble just before serving.
What kind of hot sauce works best?
Any preferred variety—Sriracha, Frank’s, or a habanero-based hot sauce will do.
Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, though it changes the flavor slightly. It’s a good substitute if preferred.
What protein can I pair with this side?
Grilled chicken, lamb, or salmon complement it well.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, and it can be made vegan by using plant-based ricotta and maple syrup.
Can I serve it cold?
It’s best warm, but room temperature also works well for flavor and texture.
How do I prevent ricotta from becoming watery?
Drain it slightly before whipping if needed, especially if using a wetter variety.
Conclusion
Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey is a beautifully balanced dish, rich in contrasting textures and flavors. It offers an elegant twist on everyday vegetables and is sure to impress with its simplicity and sophistication.
[tasty-recipe id=”19525″]