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savory roasted carrots - featured image

Savory Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey


  • Author: Nora Winslow
  • Total Time: 33-38 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This recipe elevates simple roasted carrots with creamy whipped ricotta and a spicy-sweet hot honey drizzle, creating a quick and gourmet side dish or appetizer.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds (about 700g) fresh medium-sized carrots (orange and rainbow mix optional)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt (preferably flaky sea salt)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 cup (250g) full-fat whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 3 tablespoons honey (raw or wildflower honey preferred)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Peel carrots if desired, then cut into uniform sticks or halves for even roasting.
  3. In a mixing bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, chopped thyme, and garlic powder if using.
  4. Spread carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
  5. While carrots roast, whip ricotta with lemon zest and a pinch of salt using a hand mixer or food processor until fluffy. Add a teaspoon of cream or milk if too thick.
  6. Warm honey gently in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in red pepper flakes and let steep for a few minutes to infuse heat.
  7. Arrange roasted carrots on a platter or plates. Dollop whipped ricotta on top, drizzle with hot honey, and garnish with extra thyme or cracked black pepper if desired.

Notes

Use fresh carrots for best caramelization; flipping halfway ensures even roasting. Whip ricotta well for a silky texture. Adjust red pepper flakes to control heat. Make whipped ricotta and hot honey a day ahead and store separately. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming.

  • Prep Time: 8 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: About 1/4 of the rec
  • Calories: 210
  • Fat: 10
  • Carbohydrates: 22
  • Fiber: 4
  • Protein: 8

Keywords: roasted carrots, whipped ricotta, hot honey, easy side dish, gourmet carrots, spicy honey drizzle, healthy carrot recipe