Description
Elegant yet simple sweet roasted carrots served over a cloud of creamy whipped ricotta, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with fresh herbs. A show-stopping side dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
1 lb carrots, peeled and trimmed
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp honey
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cumin or smoked paprika (optional)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil (for ricotta)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
Extra honey or chili flakes, for finishing
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss carrots with olive oil, honey, salt, pepper, and cumin or paprika.
3. Spread in a single layer and roast for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
4. While carrots roast, prepare whipped ricotta: in a food processor or blender, combine ricotta, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Blend until smooth, creamy, and slightly fluffy (about 30 seconds).
6. Spread the whipped ricotta onto a serving plate or shallow bowl.
7. Top with roasted carrots, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with fresh herbs.
8. Finish with a pinch of chili flakes or extra olive oil if desired.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
For extra depth, add roasted garlic or lemon zest to the whipped ricotta.
Use rainbow carrots for a colorful presentation.
Pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, lamb, or as part of a mezze platter.
Whipped ricotta can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasted
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup carrots + 2 tbsp ricotta
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: roasted carrots, whipped ricotta, honey roasted carrots, vegetable side dish, elegant dinner sides, vegetarian recipes