Ingredients:
- 1 pound of carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 to 2 tablespoons of hot honey (adjust based on spice preference)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or chives)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a mixing bowl, toss the carrot sticks with olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
3. Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized, turning once halfway through to achieve even browning.
4. While the carrots are roasting, prepare the whipped ricotta. In a food processor, combine the ricotta cheese and lemon zest. Pulse until smooth and creamy. If desired, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
5. Once the carrots are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Arrange the roasted carrots on a serving platter.
6. Dollop generous amounts of the whipped ricotta over the warm carrots. Drizzle with honey and hot honey, adjusting the amount based on your preferred spice level.
7. Finally, garnish with fresh herbs to add a touch of color and freshness before serving.
8. Enjoy this delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors as a side dish or a delicious light meal!