Description

Golden, honey-roasted carrots topped with whipped ricotta and toasted hazelnuts—an elegant, nourishing dish with nostalgic flavor and crave-worthy texture.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Honey-Roasted Carrots:

2 lbs carrots, peeled and trimmed (whole or halved lengthwise if large)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp ground cumin (optional for earthy warmth)

For the Whipped Ricotta:

1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

⅓ cup toasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (or thyme)
Extra drizzle of honey for finishing (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Carrots

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Peel and trim carrots. If large, slice them lengthwise to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Honey Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, pepper, and cumin if using. Toss carrots in the glaze until well-coated.

Step 3: Roast the Carrots

Spread carrots evenly on the baking sheet, leaving space between them to caramelize. Roast for 30–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and golden brown with crispy edges and slight charring.

Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Ricotta

While the carrots roast, blend ricotta, olive oil, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a food processor or blender. Whip until light and fluffy (about 30–60 seconds). Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 5: Toast the Hazelnuts

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast hazelnuts for 3–5 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally until fragrant and golden. Cool slightly, then roughly chop.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

Arrange roasted carrots on a serving platter. Dollop or spread whipped ricotta generously over the top or to the side. Sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts and fresh parsley. Drizzle lightly with additional honey if desired.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm or at room temperature as a side or vegetarian main dish. It’s a beautiful addition to both cozy dinners and elegant gatherings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4
Calories: 280
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 9g