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Roasted Carrots with Ricotta

Roasted Carrots with Ricotta

Roasted Carrots with Ricotta is a simple yet elegant side dish that highlights the natural sweetness of perfectly roasted carrots paired with creamy, tangy ricotta. This recipe uses minimal fresh ingredients to deliver maximum flavor, making it ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests. The dish is healthy, versatile, and visually appealing, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Core Ingredients

  • 6 medium fresh carrots, peeled and trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ cup fresh ricotta cheese

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley or thyme), chopped
  • 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or walnuts (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Carrots: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and trim the carrots to even sizes to ensure uniform cooking. Toss the carrots with olive oil, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper, making sure each piece is lightly coated.
  2. Roast the Carrots: Spread the carrots out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through to promote even browning and caramelization on all sides.
  3. Prepare Ricotta: While the carrots are roasting, gently stir the ricotta in a bowl to smooth it out. Optionally, add a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavor.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Once the carrots are tender and caramelized, arrange them on a serving plate. Dollop generous spoonfuls of the creamy ricotta over the warm carrots. Finish with optional toppings such as chopped fresh herbs, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, and a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Cut carrots to similar thickness to promote even cooking.
  • Use a hot oven to achieve caramelized edges and rich flavor.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to prevent steaming.
  • Use fresh, quality ricotta for best texture and taste.
  • Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for aromatic variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted carrots, ricotta, side dish, healthy, vegetarian, gluten free, easy recipe, caramelized carrots