Roasted Carrots with Ricotta

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Imagine tender, caramelized carrots layered over a bed of creamy ricotta, drizzled with golden olive oil, and sprinkled with crunchy pistachios and fresh herbs. This dish is a beautiful balance of sweet, salty, and tangy, perfect as a starter or an elegant side dish that steals the spotlight.

The roasted carrots develop deep flavor in the oven, their natural sweetness intensifying, while the ricotta provides a luxurious, cool contrast. Finished with pistachios and herbs, it’s a texture and flavor dream you’ll want to make again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Roasted Carrots with Ricotta

• Simple yet elegant: Minimal ingredients create restaurant-worthy flavor.
• Versatile: Serve it warm or at room temperature, as a side or vegetarian main.
• Nutritious and colorful: Packed with vitamins, protein, and healthy fats, plus it looks stunning on the table.
• Make-ahead friendly: Roast the carrots ahead and assemble before serving.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking Sheet: To evenly roast the carrots and achieve caramelized edges.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing Bowl: For tossing the carrots with oil and seasonings.
• Spatula or Tongs: Helps flip the carrots halfway through roasting.
• Serving Platter or Shallow Bowl: To showcase the finished dish beautifully.

Each tool plays a role in ensuring even roasting, easy handling, and a gorgeous final presentation. Using quality ricotta and fresh herbs elevates the dish further, making every bite memorable.

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Ingredients for the Roasted Carrots with Ricotta

• Carrots (preferably young or baby carrots): The star of the dish, they roast beautifully and turn sweet and tender.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that golden caramelization.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Enhances the carrots’ natural sweetness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential to balance flavors and bring everything to life.
• Ricotta Cheese: Provides a creamy, cool base that contrasts the warm carrots.
• Pistachios (chopped): For a crunchy, nutty element.
• Fresh Herbs (like thyme or parsley): Add a pop of freshness and color.

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How To Make the Roasted Carrots with Ricotta

Step 1: Prep the Carrots

Wash and peel the carrots, trimming the tops if needed. Pat them dry to ensure they roast, not steam.

Step 2: Season and Roast

Toss the carrots in a mixing bowl with olive oil, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until caramelized and tender.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Base

While the carrots roast, spread ricotta onto your serving platter or shallow bowl. You can lightly season the ricotta with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Step 4: Assemble and Finish

Arrange the roasted carrots over the ricotta. Drizzle with more olive oil, sprinkle chopped pistachios and fresh herbs over the top, and finish with an extra pinch of flaky salt if desired.

Serving and Storing Roasted Carrots with Ricotta

This dish is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. Arrange it just before serving so the ricotta stays cool and the carrots retain their roasted texture. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or alongside grilled meats and fish.

For storing, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To enjoy again, let the dish come to room temperature; reheating may soften the ricotta too much.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dairy-free?

Swap the ricotta with a plant-based alternative, like whipped almond ricotta or cashew cheese.

Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?

Absolutely! Just slice them lengthwise or into sticks so they roast evenly and caramelize well.

What herbs work best?

Fresh thyme, parsley, or even dill complement the flavors beautifully. You can mix and match depending on your taste.

Can I prep this ahead?

Yes, you can roast the carrots up to a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Assemble with ricotta and toppings just before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just be sure to check that any add-ins, like crusty bread on the side, are gluten-free if needed.

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Want More Vegetable Side Ideas?

If you love these Roasted Carrots with Ricotta, you’ll probably enjoy these other delicious options:

• Roasted Parmesan Green Beans for a crunchy, cheesy side.
• Mediterranean White Beans & Greens packed with lemony brightness.
• Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders if you’re craving something heartier.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for an easy weeknight dinner.
• Rose Pistachio Cheesecake Ice Cream for a floral, nutty dessert finish.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest veggie board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you swap the pistachios or add a spicy drizzle? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s inspire each other in the kitchen!

Find more of my daily recipes here on Pinterest: Kitchen By Kate

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