“A perfect blend of sweet, savory, and creamy – an elevated side dish for any occasion!”
This dish combines caramelized roasted carrots, creamy whipped ricotta, and a drizzle of spicy hot honey for a gourmet flavor explosion. Perfect as a side for holiday dinners, gatherings, or a unique addition to weeknight meals.
Ingredients
For the Roasted Carrots:
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut lengthwise (use rainbow carrots for a colorful presentation)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Whipped Ricotta:
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or whole milk)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Hot Honey:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat level)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick)
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Carrots
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the peeled and halved carrots on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss to coat evenly.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the carrots are golden brown and tender.
Step 2: Whip the Ricotta
- In a food processor or blender, combine the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend until the ricotta is smooth, creamy, and airy, about 1–2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Hot Honey
- In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey and stir in the red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar for a hint of tanginess. Let cool slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Spread the whipped ricotta onto a serving platter or individual plates.
- Arrange the roasted carrots on top of the ricotta.
- Drizzle the hot honey generously over the carrots and ricotta.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, and a pinch of flaky salt (optional).
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, steak, or salmon.
- Pair with a grain like quinoa or farro for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Enjoy as part of a holiday spread or as an elegant appetizer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: Sweet roasted carrots meet creamy ricotta and spicy hot honey.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make it a showstopper.
- Simple and Elegant: Easy to make but tastes and looks gourmet.
Pro Tips
- Caramelization: Roast the carrots until lightly browned for maximum sweetness.
- Adjust Heat: Add more or less red pepper flakes to the hot honey based on your spice preference.
- Smooth Ricotta: Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
Storage
- Carrots: Store roasted carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
- Hot Honey: Store leftover honey in a jar at room temperature for up to 1 month.
This Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey is the ultimate sweet, savory, and spicy side dish that’ll elevate any meal. It’s a must-try for food lovers looking for a creative and flavor-packed recipe. Enjoy! 🥕🍯✨
