Name: arrot with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (300 g); 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed (300 g); 2 cups carrots, peeled and sliced (250 g); 3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml); 1 teaspoon salt (6 g); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2 g); 1 cup ricotta cheese (225 g); 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml); 1 teaspoon lemon juice (5 ml); Pinch of salt; 2 tablespoons honey (30 ml); 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste); Fresh thyme or parsley

Jump to Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that effortlessly combines sweet, spicy, creamy, and savory elements, look no further than the arrot with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey. This vibrant medley of roasted sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and carrots is paired with a luxuriously smooth whipped ricotta and finished with a tantalizing drizzle of hot honey, creating a flavor experience that’s both comforting and surprisingly sophisticated. Every bite bursts with warmth and texture, making it an absolute favorite to share at family dinners or impress guests at your next gathering.

arrot with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every component, from the naturally sweet vegetables to the tangy whipped ricotta and the spicy-sweet honey drizzle, plays a crucial role in building the dish’s harmonious flavor and inviting textures.

Sweet potatoes (2 cups peeled and cubed): Naturally sweet and tender when roasted, they add a rich, comforting base.
Butternut squash (2 cups peeled and cubed): Brings a creamy texture and subtle sweetness that complements the carrots perfectly.
Carrots (2 cups peeled and sliced): Provide an earthy sweetness and bright color to the mix.
Olive oil (3 tablespoons plus 1 tablespoon for ricotta): Helps roast the vegetables to golden perfection and smooths out the ricotta for creaminess.
Salt (1 teaspoon plus a pinch): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and depth to the roasted veggies.
Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Whipped until fluffy, it adds a bright, creamy element to balance the roasted veggies.
Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Provides a refreshing zing to the ricotta.
Honey (2 tablespoons): Sweet and floral, it’s the perfect base for the spicy hot honey drizzle.
Chili flakes (1/2 teaspoon): Brings heat that cuts through the richness and elevates the dish.
Fresh thyme or parsley (optional garnish): Adds a fresh herbal note and color contrast.

How to Make arrot with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey

Step 1: Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Toss the sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and carrots in olive oil, salt, and black pepper until they’re evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer for even roasting. Slide them into the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, until the veggies are tender and caramelized around the edges. The roasting process unlocks their natural sweetness and creates delightful crispy spots that contrast beautifully with the creamy toppings.

Step 2: Whip the Ricotta

While the vegetables are roasting, place ricotta cheese in a bowl and whisk it vigorously with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until it becomes smooth and fluffy. This whipped ricotta provides a luscious creaminess that adds a lovely bright contrast to the warm roasted vegetables, making every bite creamy and refreshing.

Step 3: Prepare the Hot Honey Drizzle

In a small saucepan, gently warm the honey over low heat and stir in the chili flakes. This delicate heating infuses the honey with spicy warmth without overpowering its natural sweetness. Adjust the chili flakes depending on how much heat you prefer. The hot honey drizzle serves as the perfect finishing touch, lending a sweet kick that awakens all the flavors.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Transfer the roasted vegetables to a serving dish or individual plates. Spoon generous dollops of whipped ricotta over the top, then drizzle with the hot honey. If you’re using, sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley for an herbal pop both in flavor and appearance. This step brings everything together into an irresistible combination that feels both rustic and refined.

How to Serve arrot with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley work wonderfully to add a burst of color and a fresh, herby note that complements the rich, creamy, and spicy flavors of this dish. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the roasted vegetables and whipped ricotta.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a versatile side, pairing beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a lightly dressed green salad to balance its warmth and richness. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside some warm crusty bread or a simple quinoa salad loaded with fresh vegetables and herbs.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the arrot with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey on a rustic wooden board with the vegetables arranged in colorful clusters and the ricotta dolloped artfully. You can also layer the components in pretty glass jars or bowls for an elegant individual presentation. For a party spread, set it up as part of a vibrant mezze platter to let guests scoop up all the flavors with pita or flatbread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover roasted vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the whipped ricotta and hot honey drizzle in separate containers to preserve their freshness and distinct textures. This way, you can reassemble the dish with the same vibrant flavors.

Freezing

While roasted vegetables freeze well, whipped ricotta doesn’t maintain the same texture once thawed. If you plan to freeze, store only the roasted vegetables in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently before serving with freshly whipped ricotta and hot honey.

Reheating

Reheat the roasted vegetables in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to bring back their crisp edges. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep their texture intact. Whip the ricotta again before serving to restore its fluffy consistency, and warm the honey drizzle slightly if it has thickened in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use regular honey instead of hot honey?

Absolutely! You can use plain honey and mix in chili flakes yourself to achieve the hot honey effect or skip the chili altogether if you prefer a sweeter finish without heat.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

This dish relies on ricotta, a dairy cheese, so it’s not vegan as written. However, you could try a creamy plant-based ricotta alternative and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave to make it vegan-friendly.

Can I swap the vegetables?

Yes! While sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and carrots work beautifully together, you can experiment with other root vegetables like parsnips or beets to create your own twist on this dish.

What makes the whipped ricotta different from just plain ricotta?

Whipping ricotta with olive oil and lemon juice transforms it into a lighter, fluffier, and creamier spread that contrasts nicely with the hearty roasted vegetables and helps carry the flavors of the hot honey.

How spicy is the hot honey drizzle?

The heat level is mild to moderate and can be adjusted by how much chili flakes you add. It adds a pleasant warmth that balances the sweetness without overwhelming the dish.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t yet experienced the delightful harmony of arrot with Whipped Ricotta and Hot Honey, you’re in for a treat. This dish is easy to put together, bursting with flavor, and brings a golden glow to your table that’s sure to warm your heart. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting loved ones, it’s a wonderful way to celebrate simple, beautiful ingredients in a fresh and exciting way. Give it a try, and get ready to fall in love with this delightful combination.