Roasted carrots with whipped ricotta and hot honey is a delightful dish that brings together sweet, tender vegetables with a creamy, rich topping. It’s an easy recipe that brightens up any meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it’s both comforting and impressive.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This dish is loved for its simplicity and taste. Using everyday ingredients, it takes minimal time and effort to prepare, making it perfect for busy families. The combination of roasted carrots and whipped ricotta creates a fantastic balance of flavors. Plus, that drizzle of hot honey adds an exciting twist that everyone will enjoy!

How to Make Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey

Making this dish is straightforward and fun. You’ll begin by roasting the carrots until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. While they cook, whipping the ricotta is a breeze. With just a few ingredients, you’ll create a creamy topping that pairs perfectly with the warm carrots.

What You Need

4 large carrots
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Peel the carrots and cut them into evenly sized pieces, either in half or quarters depending on their thickness.
Place the carrot pieces on a baking sheet.
Drizzle the olive oil over the carrots.
Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, ground cumin, ground coriander, and smoked paprika evenly over the carrots.
Toss the carrots to ensure they are coated in the oil and seasonings.
Spread the carrots out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned, flipping halfway through for even roasting.
While the carrots are roasting, prepare the whipped ricotta.
In a medium bowl, add the ricotta cheese.
Using a spoon or a hand mixer, whip the ricotta until it becomes smooth and creamy.
Drizzle in the honey while continuing to whip the ricotta, ensuring it is fully incorporated.
Add the red pepper flakes and lemon juice to the whipped ricotta, mixing until well combined.
Once the carrots are roasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
Spread the whipped ricotta mixture evenly on a serving platter.
Top the ricotta with the roasted carrots.
Drizzle any leftover honey over the carrots for added sweetness.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or as part of a cozy vegetarian dinner. It also makes a great side for holiday meals. Feel free to sprinkle more red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick!

How to Store Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey

To keep leftovers fresh, store the roasted carrots and whipped ricotta separately in airtight containers. They can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, warm the carrots in the oven or microwave. If you have leftovers of the whipped ricotta, enjoy it spread on toast or added to salads.

Recipe Tips

Make sure to cut the carrots into uniform sizes for even cooking.
Whip the ricotta until fully smooth for the best texture.
Adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference.
Toss the carrots halfway through roasting for even browning.
Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning if needed.

Variations & Swaps

Honey Variations: Swap hot honey for regular honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness.
Herb Swaps: Change the parsley for fresh basil or thyme for a new flavor profile.
Add Protein: Top the dish with grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more filling meal.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the carrots a few hours in advance and keep them warm. Whip the ricotta just before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze roasted carrots?
Freezing isn’t recommended as it may change the texture. However, you can freeze leftover whipped ricotta for up to one month and thaw it in the fridge before serving.

How do I reheat the leftovers?
The easiest way to reheat the carrots is in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. The whipped ricotta can be microwaved for a few seconds or left out to come to room temperature before serving.

Can I substitute the ricotta?
If you need a dairy-free option, try using vegan cream cheese or a plant-based ricotta for a similar texture.

What happens if I overcook the carrots?
Overcooked carrots can become mushy. Keep an eye on them and start checking for tenderness at the 20-minute mark. Flipping them halfway helps ensure even cooking.