Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Pairings: The natural sweetness of roasted carrots pairs beautifully with the creamy whipped ricotta and a touch of spicy hot honey.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dish accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside proteins like roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a vegetarian main.
• Customizable: Easily tweak the flavor profile by using different herbs or adjusting the spice level.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients, this dish is both indulgent and nourishing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Carrots:

• 12 carrots, sliced lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme
• 1 1/2 teaspoons hot honey

For the Whipped Ricotta:

• 2/3 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare Carrots: Toss the sliced carrots with olive oil, salt, and thyme in a mixing bowl. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
3. Roast Carrots: Roast the carrots in the oven for 20-30 minutes, or until they are tender and have a slight caramelized edge.
4. Make Whipped Ricotta: In a food processor, combine the ricotta cheese, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Dish: Arrange the roasted carrots on a serving plate. Top them with dollops of whipped ricotta and drizzle with hot honey.
6. Serve: Serve immediately as a flavorful side dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 4-6 as a side dish.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-30 minutes
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes

Variations

• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes to the carrots for an extra kick.
• Herb Substitutions: Swap thyme for rosemary, oregano, or parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Sweeten It Up: For less heat, use regular honey instead of hot honey.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans on top for a crunchy contrast.
• Vegan Version: Substitute whipped ricotta with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat carrots in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warm. The ricotta can be served cold or gently warmed in the microwave for a few seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?

Yes, baby carrots work well, but adjust the roasting time as they cook faster.

2. What can I use instead of hot honey?

You can use regular honey and add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for spice.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can roast the carrots and prepare the whipped ricotta in advance. Assemble and drizzle with hot honey just before serving.

4. Is whipped ricotta necessary?

While whipped ricotta adds a creamy texture, you can use plain ricotta or another soft cheese as a substitute.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the ricotta with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or almond ricotta.

6. How do I prevent the carrots from becoming soggy?

Ensure the carrots are spaced out on the baking sheet for even roasting and caramelization.

7. What main dishes pair well with this recipe?

This dish complements roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a hearty grain-based salad.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of the carrots and whipped ricotta may change upon thawing.

9. How can I adjust the spice level?

Simply increase or decrease the amount of hot honey or add more chili flakes for spice.

10. What other vegetables can I use?

You can substitute carrots with parsnips, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash.

Conclusion

Roasted carrots with whipped ricotta and hot honey is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients for an unforgettable flavor experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements. Give it a try, and make it your go-to side dish!

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