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Roasted Carrots with Ricotta

Roasted Carrots with Ricotta
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Roasted Carrots with Ricotta is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the natural sweetness and earthy flavors of caramelized carrots paired with the creamy, tangy richness of fresh ricotta. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course, this recipe is quick to prepare, nutritious, and easily customizable with herbs, spices, and toppings to suit any palate or occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 lb fresh carrots, washed, peeled, and cut into sticks or rounds

Dairy

  • 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese

Oils & Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Herbs & Flavorings

  • 1 tsp fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • Lemon zest and/or 1 tsp lemon juice

Optional Toppings

  • 1 tsp honey or balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
  • Pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika (for a spicy twist)
  • Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts (for nutty crunch)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Carrots: Wash and peel the fresh carrots, then cut them evenly into sticks or rounds to ensure uniform roasting and tender texture with caramelized edges.
  2. Toss and Season: In a bowl, toss the cut carrots with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and a pinch of dried herbs if desired. This step enhances their natural sweetness during roasting.
  3. Roast to Perfection: Arrange the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through to ensure even caramelization and a golden exterior.
  4. Prepare the Ricotta: While the carrots roast, stir the ricotta cheese with lemon zest, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt until creamy and flavorful, complementing the roasted carrots perfectly.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Once the carrots are done, let them cool slightly. Spoon the ricotta mixture over the top or serve it on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs and, if desired, a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for added sweetness and complexity.

Notes

  • Use uniform cuts for even roasting to avoid burnt or undercooked pieces.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; give carrots room to caramelize properly instead of steaming.
  • Opt for fresh ricotta and drain any excess liquid beforehand to maintain a creamy texture.
  • Adding a bit of lemon juice or vinegar to the ricotta enhances its brightness and lifts the dish.
  • Experiment with toppings like nuts, seeds, or fresh herbs for added texture and flavor layers.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted carrots, ricotta cheese, healthy side dish, easy appetizer, gluten free, vegetarian, simple recipe, baked vegetables

Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/roasted-carrots-with-ricotta/