Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey

Hi, I’m Sam from dishfoody.com, your trusted source for recipes that transform simple ingredients into elegant, joyful dishes. If you’re tired of dry, overcooked chicken breasts or uninspired vegetables, this Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey recipe delivers a perfect harmony of caramelized sweetness, creamy richness, and spicy warmth all in one beautiful dish.

With years of recipe crafting, I’ve created this easy-to-make, visually stunning recipe that’s ideal as a side or appetizer to impress guests or elevate weeknight meals. Here’s everything you need to know to make this flavorful delight.

Why This Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey Works

• Roasting caramelizes carrots, enhancing natural sweetness and depth
• Whipped ricotta adds light, creamy texture that balances the honey glaze
• Hot honey provides a spicy-sweet finish that brightens the dish
• Uses affordable, fresh ingredients
• Minimal prep and simple roasting techniques
• Perfect for holiday dinners, casual get-togethers, or gourmet meal additions

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Carrots:

• Choose fresh, firm carrots of medium size for even roasting
• Heirloom or rainbow carrots add colorful visual appeal

Ricotta:

• Use fresh, whole milk ricotta for creaminess and flavor
• Drain excess liquid for best whipping results

Hot Honey:

• Blend honey with red pepper flakes or use pre-made spicy honey
• Adjust heat level to personal taste

Additional Ingredients:

• Olive oil for roasting carrots
• Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to garnish
• Coarse sea salt and black pepper for seasoning

Ingredients & Prep

• 1 ½ pounds carrots, peeled and cut into uniform sticks or halves
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
• 2 tablespoons honey (plus 1 tablespoon if blending with chili)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
2. Roast carrots, turning occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, whip ricotta with 2 tablespoons honey until light and fluffy using a mixer or whisk.
4. For hot honey, gently warm honey and stir in red pepper flakes; let infuse for 5 minutes.
5. Spread or dollop whipped ricotta on serving plates. Arrange roasted carrots on top or alongside.
6. Drizzle hot honey generously over the carrots and ricotta.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs and additional cracked pepper.

Pro Tips for Success

• Cut carrots evenly to ensure uniform roasting
• Use a stand or hand mixer to achieve fluffy whipped ricotta
• Adjust hot honey spiciness gradually to avoid overpowering

Flavor Variations

Sweet Twist:

Swap hot honey for maple syrup or balsamic glaze.

Herb Variation:

Add rosemary or sage in roasting oil for extra aroma.

Global Flair:

• Mediterranean: Top with toasted pine nuts.
• Middle Eastern: Sprinkle sumac before serving.
• Asian: Drizzle with chili oil along with honey.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as elegant side dish alongside roasted meats or vegetarian mains. Ideal for festive meals or casual dinner parties.

FAQs

• Can I prep ahead? Yes, roast carrots in advance and whip ricotta before serving.
• How to store leftovers? Refrigerate components separately up to 2 days.
• Is this dish gluten-free? Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.

Conclusion

Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey is a sophisticated yet simple dish that delivers layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Elevate your meals effortlessly and impress your guests with this vibrant recipe. For more seasonal delights, visit dishfoody.com and try our Honey Hot Chicken Salad next!

Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey

Print Recipe

A luxurious yet simple dish of tender roasted carrots topped with creamy lemon whipped ricotta and a drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey. Garnished with crushed pistachios and fresh thyme for an elegant side or appetizer.

• Author: ssam
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American, Modern

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 whole carrots, scrubbed and halved lengthwise if large
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 2/3 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons hot honey
• Crushed pistachios and fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions

• 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• 2. Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and thyme; arrange on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• 3. Roast for 20-30 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and caramelized.
• 4. Meanwhile, in a food processor, blend ricotta, lemon juice, salt, and olive oil until smooth and creamy.
• 5. Spread whipped ricotta on a serving platter.
• 6. Top with roasted carrots and drizzle hot honey evenly over the top.
• 7. Garnish with crushed pistachios and fresh thyme if desired.

Notes

• Use full-fat ricotta for the creamiest texture.
• Adjust hot honey amount to your preferred spice level.
• Serve alongside grain bowls or as an elegant appetizer.
• Make ahead and rewarm the carrots gently before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: roasted carrots, whipped ricotta, hot honey, elegant side dish