If you're looking for a side dish that's both elegant and packed with flavor, Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey is your ultimate answer! This vibrant recipe combines tender, caramelized carrots roasted to perfection with creamy whipped ricotta and a drizzle of spicy-sweet hot honey. Topped with fresh herbs and crunchy pistachios, it’s a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that will elevate any meal.
Let’s dive into how you can create this stunning dish step by step!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Sweet & Spicy Harmony : The natural sweetness of roasted carrots pairs beautifully with the heat of hot honey.
- Creamy Contrast : Whipped ricotta adds a luxurious texture that complements the carrots' earthiness.
- Quick & Easy : Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal prep work.
- Versatile : Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light vegetarian main.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Roasted Carrots:
- 1 lb (450g) baby carrots or heirloom carrots
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Whipped Ricotta:
- 8 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Pinch of salt
For Serving:
- 2–3 tbsp hot honey (adjust based on spiciness preference)
- Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, thyme, or mint), chopped
- ¼ cup pistachios, roughly chopped
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese or flaky sea salt