Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey

This Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey recipe is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy. The tender, caramelized carrots pair beautifully with creamy ricotta and a drizzle of spicy honey for a dish that works as an appetizer, side, or even a light meal.

Ingredients:

For the Roasted Carrots:

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into halves or quarters (depending on size)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon honey (for roasting)

For the Whipped Ricotta:

• 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Hot Honey:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Roast the Carrots:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and honey.
3. Spread evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized.

2. Make the Whipped Ricotta:

1. In a food processor or blender, combine ricotta, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy (about 1-2 minutes). Set aside.

3. Prepare the Hot Honey:

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey.
2. Stir in red pepper flakes and apple cider vinegar.
3. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.

4. Assemble the Dish:

1. Spread the whipped ricotta on a serving plate.
2. Arrange the roasted carrots on top.
3. Drizzle generously with hot honey.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley (optional).

Tips for the Best Roasted Carrots:

• Use Rainbow Carrots for a visually stunning dish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan to ensure even caramelization.
• Adjust the Heat in the hot honey by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes.
• Make Ahead: Both the whipped ricotta and hot honey can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge.

This dish is a showstopper at any meal, combining roasted sweetness, creamy richness, and a spicy kick. Enjoy