Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta & Hot Honey

Sweet, Tangy & Spicy—A Flavor-Packed Side or Appetizer

This Roasted Carrot Dish is a stunning balance of flavors and textures: tender, caramelized carrots roasted to perfection, topped with silky whipped ricotta and drizzled with spicy hot honey. It’s an elegant yet simple dish that feels like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen.

Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or part of a veggie-forward dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• 🌶️ Hot Honey Kick: A sweet-spicy glaze that elevates the natural sugars in the carrots.
• 🧀 Whipped Ricotta Magic: Light, airy, and lemon-kissed—this ricotta topping melts into every bite.
• 🥕 Carrots Reimagined: Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and softens their texture.
• 🧄 Smoky Spice Option: Smoked paprika adds depth without overpowering the dish.
• 🎉 Great for Gatherings: Ideal for dinner parties, holiday tables, or healthy weeknight meals.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

For the Roasted Carrots:

• 1½ lbs carrots , peeled and halved lengthwise (about 6–8 medium carrots)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional – for a smoky finish)

For the Whipped Ricotta:

• 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese (or part-skim for lighter version)
• 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream (for smoothness and spreadability)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (adds richness and helps blend)
• Zest of 1 lemon (freshly grated for best flavor)
• Salt and black pepper , to taste

For the Hot Honey:

• ¼ cup honey
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (balances sweetness and adds tang)

Optional Garnishes:

• Crushed walnuts or pistachios
• Extra lemon zest
• Chopped chives or parsley
• Pinch of flaky sea salt
• Fresh mint leaves for brightness

Instructions:

Step 1: Roast the Carrots

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) .

Toss carrot halves with:

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Smoked paprika (if using)

Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet cut-side down.

Roast for 25–30 minutes , flipping halfway through, until tender and golden brown.

Let cool slightly before plating.

Step 2: Whip the Ricotta

In a food processor or blender, combine:

• Ricotta cheese
• Milk or cream
• Olive oil
• Lemon zest

Blend until light, smooth, and fluffy—add more milk if needed.

Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.

Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Make the Hot Honey

In a small saucepan over low heat , warm:

• Honey
• Red pepper flakes

Stir constantly for 3–4 minutes —do not let it boil.

Remove from heat and stir in:

• Apple cider vinegar

Let cool slightly before drizzling over the finished dish.

Step 4: Assemble Like a Chef

On a serving platter or individual plates:

1. Spread whipped ricotta evenly across the base.
2. Arrange roasted carrots on top.
3. Drizzle hot honey generously over everything.
4. Sprinkle with:
   • Crushed walnuts or pistachios
   • Additional lemon zest
   • Fresh herbs or chives
   • A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt

Tips for Success:

• 🥕 Use Thick Carrots: For even roasting and perfect caramelization—baby carrots work too!
• 🧈 Room-Temp Ricotta: Blends better and gives a smoother texture.
• 🍯 Adjust the Heat: Use more or less chili flakes—or swap with cayenne or sriracha.
• 🧁 Make Ahead Magic: Roast carrots and whip ricotta ahead of time—assemble just before serving.
• 🌱 Vegan Option: Use coconut yogurt instead of ricotta and maple syrup in place of honey.

Serving Suggestions:

• Perfect alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as a vegan main.
• Great at dinner parties, family dinners, or weekend brunches.
• Ideal for charcuterie boards, mezze platters, or cozy solo meals.

Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 servings – approximate):

(Without optional garnish – regular ingredients)

• Calories: ~220 kcal
• Protein: ~5g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fat: ~12g
• Fiber: ~2g
• Sugar: ~12g

These Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta & Hot Honey prove that vegetables can be the star of the plate. With their caramelized sweetness, creamy ricotta, and fiery honey drizzle—it’s a dish that brings bold flavor and elegance together in one unforgettable bite.

So go ahead and make this tonight… because once you try it—you’ll be making it again and again!