Sweet, earthy roasted carrots paired with creamy whipped ricotta and a warm, herb-laced walnut vinaigrette create a dish that is both elegant and satisfying. This colorful plate is ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or a refined vegetarian main course. Its beautiful presentation and harmonious balance of flavors make it a standout on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish elevates simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy plate. The natural sweetness of roasted carrots contrasts beautifully with the creamy, tangy whipped ricotta, while the walnut vinaigrette adds crunch, warmth, and herbal brightness. It’s easy to prepare yet looks impressive, making it perfect for entertaining or treating yourself to something special.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lbs young carrots, peeled and tops trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Whipped Ricotta:

• 1 cup whole milk ricotta
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

Herbed Walnut Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 small shallot, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and chili flakes to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the peeled and trimmed carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. While the carrots roast, prepare the whipped ricotta. In a bowl, combine ricotta, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth using a spoon, or for a fluffier texture, use a hand mixer or food processor.
5. To make the vinaigrette, heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add chopped walnuts and shallots and cook for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
6. Stir in red wine vinegar, honey, parsley, salt, and chili flakes. Remove from heat.
7. Arrange the roasted carrots on a serving platter. Spoon the whipped ricotta over them and drizzle with the warm walnut vinaigrette.
8. Garnish with extra chopped herbs if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 as a side dish or 2 as a vegetarian main.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegan version: Replace ricotta with a plant-based alternative such as cashew cream or whipped tofu.
• Nut-free: Substitute toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for the walnuts.
• Add grains: Serve over a bed of farro, quinoa, or couscous for a more substantial main dish.
• Change the vinaigrette: Use pistachios or almonds in place of walnuts for a different nutty profile.

storage/reheating

Store leftover components separately in airtight containers. Roasted carrots and vinaigrette will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Whipped ricotta is best used within 2 days. Reheat the carrots in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or serve them cold in a salad. The vinaigrette can be gently reheated in a skillet if needed.

FAQs

Can I use rainbow carrots for this recipe?

Yes, rainbow carrots add visual appeal and can be roasted just like regular orange carrots.

What kind of ricotta works best?

Whole milk ricotta provides the creamiest texture. Avoid low-fat versions, which may be watery.

Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

Yes, the ricotta and vinaigrette can be prepared a day in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator.

Is this dish served warm or cold?

It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for various settings.

Can I use baby carrots instead of young carrots?

Yes, but ensure they are evenly sized for consistent roasting, and reduce roasting time slightly if small.

How do I get fluffy whipped ricotta?

Use a food processor or hand mixer to blend the ricotta until light and smooth.

What herbs can I use in the vinaigrette?

Parsley is traditional, but you can also use chives, tarragon, or dill for different flavor profiles.

Can I make this nut-free?

Yes, substitute the walnuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with grilled meats, hearty grains, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Is this suitable for a holiday menu?

Absolutely. Its presentation and flavor profile make it ideal for festive occasions and dinner parties.

Conclusion

Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Herbed Walnut Vinaigrette is a visually stunning and flavor-packed dish that turns humble ingredients into something truly memorable. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply elevating your weeknight vegetables, this recipe delivers both elegance and comfort in every bite.

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