Description
Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey delivers a sensational blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors. Rich Mediterranean-inspired ingredients dance together, creating a simple yet elegant side dish that elevates any meal with remarkable depth and complexity.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) carrots, peeled and trimmed
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt
- Pepper
Cooking Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the whipped ricotta:
- 1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt
- Pepper
For the hot honey:
- ¼ cup honey
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
- ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar
For garnish:
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- Crushed pistachios, almonds, or walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to a high temperature, positioning the rack in the center. Prepare a baking sheet with a light coating of oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange whole carrots on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Massage with olive oil, creating a glistening surface that will help caramelize during roasting.
- Generously season the carrots with smoked paprika, introducing a subtle smoky undertone. Sprinkle salt and freshly cracked pepper to enhance the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
- Drizzle honey across the carrots, which will create a beautiful caramelized exterior during roasting. Rotate the carrots midway through cooking to ensure even browning and tender texture.
- While carrots are roasting, transform the ricotta into a silky, luxurious spread using a food processor or hand mixer. Incorporate lemon zest and juice to brighten the creamy mixture.
- Create a spicy-sweet condiment by gently warming honey with chili flakes and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Allow the flavors to meld and intensify over low heat.
- Once carrots are tender and caramelized with crispy edges, remove from the oven and let rest briefly to cool slightly.
- Artfully spread the whipped ricotta across a serving platter, creating elegant swirls and peaks.
- Carefully arrange the roasted carrots atop the creamy ricotta, allowing their vibrant colors to contrast beautifully.
- Finish the dish by drizzling the infused hot honey over the carrots, creating a glistening, spicy-sweet glaze.
- Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture and visual appeal. Serve immediately to enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and temperatures.
Notes
- Enhance caramelization by cutting carrots into uniform sizes, ensuring even roasting and golden-brown edges.
- Choose organic carrots with vibrant colors for maximum flavor and nutritional benefits, as they roast more beautifully.
- Experiment with different honey varieties like lavender or wildflower to create unique flavor profiles in the hot honey.
- Swap ricotta with Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a lighter, dairy-free alternative that maintains creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg