Name: Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 pounds medium carrots, peeled and trimmed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon honey; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 2 tablespoons toasted pistachios or walnuts, chopped (optional for garnish)

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If you’re searching for a side dish that dazzles with both looks and flavor, you’re about to fall in love with Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta. Tender, caramelized carrots are paired with the dreamiest bed of lemony whipped ricotta—each bite is a lush mix of sweet, salty, creamy, and fresh. It’s as stunning on a holiday table as it is at a simple weeknight dinner, and it always gathers a crowd around for seconds.

Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta is in its simplicity: every ingredient here truly shines. Sweet carrots, silky ricotta, bright lemon, and fresh herbs create a dish that’s comforting but feels fresh and special.

Carrots: Look for medium carrots—these roast evenly and offer the ideal balance of sweetness and earthiness.
Olive oil: Adds depth and helps the carrots caramelize beautifully in the oven.
Honey: Just a drizzle brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and enhances their golden color.
Kosher salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together—don’t skip!
Black pepper: A touch of heat and complexity rounds out the seasonings.
Ricotta cheese (whole-milk): For that dreamy, creamy whipped ricotta base that carries the dish.
Heavy cream: Helps the ricotta whip up light and irresistibly fluffy.
Lemon zest: Brightens every bite and gives the ricotta a fresh zing.
Lemon juice: Adds tang that balances the sweet carrots and creamy cheese.
Fresh thyme leaves: Plenty of herbal aroma and flavor; they’re the perfect finishing touch.
Toasted pistachios or walnuts (optional): For a wonderful little crunch and nutty richness—definitely recommended!

How to Make Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta

Step 1: Prep the Carrots

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Give your carrots a quick peel and trim, then spread them out on a large baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil and honey—this duo ensures perfect caramelization. Sprinkle on the kosher salt and black pepper, and toss well so every carrot is coated and ready to shine.

Step 2: Roast Until Golden

Spread the carrots out in a single layer. That’s the secret to even roasting! Pop them in your hot oven for 20–25 minutes, turning them halfway so both sides get those irresistible caramelized edges. They’re done when a fork slips in easily and you see hints of golden brown color.

Step 3: Make the Whipped Ricotta

While your kitchen fills with the cozy scent of roasting carrots, it’s time to whip up the ricotta. In a medium bowl, add the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Use a hand mixer or trusty whisk, and beat until the mixture is creamy, smooth, and slightly fluffy—it should look light and inviting.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread the whipped ricotta in a thick, swoopy layer across your favorite serving platter. Arrange the hot, caramelized carrots right on top. Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and, if you’re feeling fancy, a shower of roughly chopped toasted pistachios or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Serve your Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta while the carrots are still warm. The contrast between the creamy, cool ricotta and the sweet, tender carrots is absolute perfection!

How to Serve Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of fresh thyme brings a soft herbal note, but don’t underestimate the power of a handful of toasted nuts—pistachios or walnuts add color and crunch. If you want to get creative, a little lemon zest on top makes the whole platter pop and gives people a hint of what’s beneath those caramelized carrots.

Side Dishes

Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta pairs beautifully with so many mains. Try it with roasted chicken, lamb, or alongside a fillet of baked salmon. For a full vegetarian spread, serve it with a hearty grain salad or bright, leafy greens. The ricotta base makes it substantial enough to hold its own with classic Mediterranean flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, spread the whipped ricotta on individual plates and top each with a nest of carrots for an elegant starter. Hosting a casual party? Serve the carrots and ricotta with toasted pita wedges or crostini for a shareable, interactive appetizer. You can even slip leftovers into a wrap with greens for a tasty lunch the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta, good news! Store carrots and ricotta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping them apart maintains the texture and keeps flavors vibrant.

Freezing

While the carrots themselves freeze quite well and can be stored for up to two months, the whipped ricotta is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing the ricotta can change its creamy texture as it tends to become grainy after thawing, so whip up a new batch when reheating your carrots for the best experience.

Reheating

To reheat, spread carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer and warm them through in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes; this brings back their roasted magic without drying them out. Wait until after reheating to add the whipped ricotta so everything tastes freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of medium carrots?

Absolutely! Baby carrots are a convenient substitute—just reduce the roasting time by 5-10 minutes, as they’re smaller and will cook a bit faster. Watch for those beautiful golden edges to know they’re done.

Is there a dairy-free option for the whipped ricotta?

Yes, you can use dairy-free ricotta alternatives made from almonds or tofu for the whipped base. Add a little plant-based cream (like coconut or oat) for that luscious, fluffy texture and proceed exactly as with the original recipe.

What else can I add to the carrots before roasting?

To jazz things up, try tossing the carrots with a pinch of smoked paprika, cumin, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for gentle heat. These spices deepen the flavor and make the aroma pop when roasting.

Can I make Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta a day ahead?

You sure can! The whipped ricotta actually benefits from a bit of time in the fridge, letting the flavors meld. Roast the carrots just before serving for the ideal texture, or reheat them as described above for convenience.

What kind of ricotta works best?

Whole-milk ricotta is the secret for a truly creamy, rich whipped ricotta base. Look for a high-quality brand—if your ricotta is watery, drain it in a fine sieve or cheesecloth for 20 minutes before whipping. It makes all the difference!

Final Thoughts

Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta is one of those recipes you’ll turn to again and again, whether you want to impress dinner guests or bring a splash of color and flavor to your weeknight table. I hope you’ll give this dish a try—get ready to fall in love with this irresistible blend of caramelized carrots and creamy, lemony ricotta.

Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta Recipe

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4.8 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

Indulge in the savory sweetness of oven-roasted carrots paired with creamy whipped ricotta, a delightful dish that brings out the natural flavors of the vegetables with a touch of elegance.

Ingredients

Scale

Roasted Carrots:

2 pounds medium carrots, peeled and trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Whipped Ricotta:

1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
2 tablespoons toasted pistachios or walnuts, chopped (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Prepare Carrots: Place the carrots on a large baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil and honey, sprinkle with salt and pepper, toss to coat evenly. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and caramelized, turning once.
Make Whipped Ricotta: In a bowl, mix ricotta, heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth and fluffy.
Assemble: Spread whipped ricotta on a platter, arrange roasted carrots on top, sprinkle with thyme, and garnish with nuts if desired. Serve warm.