There’s something magical about simple vegetables turning into something extraordinary with just a little love. Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta is one of those recipes that feels rustic and elegant all at once. Sweet, caramelized carrots paired with creamy, dreamy ricotta and finished with a drizzle of honey—it’s the kind of dish that makes any dinner table feel special.
Whether you’re serving it as a holiday side, a weeknight treat, or part of a cozy dinner spread, this recipe brings comfort and a touch of sophistication without being complicated.
Recipe Info
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Side Dish, Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | ~210 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Carrots:
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or left whole if thin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Whipped Ricotta:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 teaspoons honey (or hot honey, for a little kick)
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the Carrots
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika until evenly coated. - Roast Until Golden
Spread carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized. - Whip the Ricotta
While carrots roast, add ricotta, olive oil, and lemon zest to a food processor (or whisk by hand for a rustic texture). Blend until smooth and fluffy. Season lightly with salt and pepper. - Assemble the Dish
Spread the whipped ricotta onto a serving platter. Top with roasted carrots, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with fresh herbs. - Serve & Enjoy
Serve warm as a side or appetizer. Every bite should have a little creamy ricotta, sweet carrot, and drizzle of honey.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Carrot Size Matters: If using large carrots, cut them evenly so they roast at the same rate.
- Make Ahead: Whip ricotta up to a day in advance; just keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
- No Food Processor? A hand whisk works fine for ricotta, though the texture will be less fluffy.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: Use hot honey or add a pinch of chili flakes to the carrots before roasting.
- Herb Swap: Try fresh dill, basil, or rosemary instead of parsley or thyme.
- Lighter Dairy Option: Substitute part-skim ricotta or whipped cottage cheese for a lighter twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or lamb for a complete meal.
- Serve as part of a vegetarian spread with roasted potatoes and a leafy salad.
- Add crusty bread on the side to scoop up every bit of ricotta goodness.
Conclusion
This Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Sweet, savory, creamy, and cozy—it’s a dish that invites everyone to gather around the table and share. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a festive feast, it’s one you’ll want to make again and again.