Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey-Tender, caramelized carrots layered over creamy ricotta and finished with a spicy-sweet drizzle—your new favorite side dish

Introduction

This dish is a celebration of contrasts: earthy roasted carrots, silky whipped ricotta, and a bold drizzle of hot honey. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners and stunning enough for holiday spreads. The roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots, while the ricotta adds a cool, creamy base that balances the heat from the honey.

Whether you serve it as a side, appetizer, or vegetarian main, this recipe delivers restaurant-worthy flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

1 lb baby carrots, peeled
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup ricotta cheese
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped
Optional add-ons: chopped pistachios, lemon zest, or thyme

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Carrots

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender and caramelized.

Step 2: Whip the Ricotta

While carrots roast, whip ricotta in a bowl until smooth and fluffy (use a spoon or hand mixer).
Optional: add a pinch of salt or lemon zest for brightness.

Step 3: Make the Hot Honey

In a small bowl, mix honey and hot sauce.
Warm slightly in the microwave or on the stove for a pourable consistency.

Step 4: Assemble

Spread whipped ricotta on a serving platter or individual plates.
Arrange roasted carrots on top.
Drizzle with hot honey.
Garnish with parsley or other toppings.

Time Breakdown

Task Time
Prep 10 minutes
Roast 30 minutes
Assemble & Serve 5 minutes
Total Time ~45 minutes

Tips for Success

Use rainbow carrots for a colorful presentation.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—carrots roast better with space.
Whip ricotta until airy for a luxurious texture.
Adjust heat: use more or less hot sauce to suit your taste.
Make ahead: roast carrots and whip ricotta in advance, then assemble before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or lentil stew.
Pair with crusty bread or pita for scooping.
Add to a brunch board with olives, nuts, and fruit.
Use leftovers in grain bowls or wraps.

Variations to Try

Maple Hot Honey: Swap honey for maple syrup and add chili flakes.
Herbed Ricotta: Stir in chopped thyme, basil, or dill.
Crunch Factor: Sprinkle with toasted pistachios or walnuts.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based ricotta and agave with chili oil.

Storage

Store components separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat carrots in the oven or air fryer.
Ricotta and hot honey are best served fresh but can be made ahead.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey dish is proof that simple ingredients can create something spectacular. It’s sweet, spicy, creamy, and totally crave-worthy.