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Honey Roasted Carrots with Whipped Feta: Best Ever Side

honey roasted carrots with whipped feta - featured image

Sweet, sticky honey-roasted carrots served over a bed of cool, tangy whipped feta. This quick and easy side dish comes together in about 30 minutes and is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound carrots (about 6 medium), peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 6 ounces feta cheese (block in brine, preferably)
  • 2 tablespoons honey, plus extra for drizzling
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, toasted pine nuts, balsamic glaze

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Peel 1 pound of carrots and cut them into 2-inch pieces. If thick, cut in half lengthwise. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the carrots, then sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves. Toss to coat evenly and spread in a single layer.
  4. Roast the carrots for 20 minutes, until starting to soften and golden on the edges.
  5. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of honey over the carrots and toss gently. Return to the oven and roast for another 8 to 10 minutes, until tender and caramelized.
  6. While the carrots roast, make the whipped feta: Crumble 6 ounces of feta cheese into a food processor. Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Process for about 30 seconds, scraping down the sides, until smooth and creamy. Add more cream if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Spread the whipped feta onto a serving platter in an even layer, creating swirls with a spatula.
  8. Transfer the roasted honey carrots onto the whipped feta. Drizzle any remaining honey glaze from the baking sheet over the top.
  9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, a pinch of flaky sea salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Add extra honey and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Don’t crowd the pan to ensure caramelization. Cut carrots evenly for uniform cooking. Let feta come to room temperature for smoother whipping. Taste feta before adding extra salt. Add honey halfway through roasting to prevent burning. Let carrots rest for a minute after roasting to set the glaze.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey roasted carrots, whipped feta, roasted carrots, easy side dish, potluck recipe, holiday side, vegetarian, gluten-free