Description
Roasted Carrots with Whipped Feta is a simple yet elegant side dish that pairs sweet, tender roasted carrots with creamy, tangy whipped feta cheese. Enhanced with fresh thyme, drizzled with hot honey, and garnished with crunchy pistachios and fresh herbs, this recipe offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds carrots, small to medium size
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
Whipped Feta
- Whipped feta (amount not specified, approximately 1 cup recommended)
Toppings
- Hot honey or honey, for drizzling (to taste, about 1-2 tablespoons)
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- Chopped fresh parsley, chives, and/or dill, for garnish (about 2 tablespoons mixed)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425ºF and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare Carrots: Scrub the carrots thoroughly and remove their tops. Peel the carrots if desired, and if they are too large, cut them in half lengthwise. Arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Season Carrots: Drizzle the carrots with extra-virgin olive oil and toss until they are well coated. Sprinkle fresh thyme, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper evenly over the carrots for flavor.
- Roast Carrots: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the carrots for 18 to 27 minutes depending on their size. Toss them halfway through cooking to ensure even caramelization. The carrots should be fork tender and caramelized on the outside when done.
- Prepare Whipped Feta: While the carrots are roasting, prepare your whipped feta if homemade or have it ready if store-bought. This creamy, tangy spread will serve as the base for the dish.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread the whipped feta evenly onto a large serving platter. Arrange the roasted carrots on top of the whipped feta in an attractive layer.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle hot honey or regular honey over the arranged carrots for a sweet and spicy contrast. Sprinkle chopped pistachios and fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, and dill over the top for crunch and freshness.
- Serve: Serve the roasted carrots with whipped feta immediately while warm and enjoy the delicious flavor combination.
Notes
- Adjust roasting time based on carrot size to avoid under or overcooking.
- Use hot honey for a subtle spicy kick or regular honey if preferred milder sweetness.
- Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and dill can be used individually or in combination according to taste.
- Pistachios add a pleasant crunch; toasted nuts enhance flavor even further.
- Whipped feta can be made by blending feta cheese with cream cheese or Greek yogurt until fluffy if you don’t have it pre-made.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat carrots gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
