Ingredients
Carrots
- 1 1/2 pounds carrots, small to medium size
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
Whipped Feta
- Whipped feta (quantity as needed to spread on platter)
Toppings and Garnish
- Hot honey or regular honey, for drizzling
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- Chopped fresh parsley, chives, and/or dill, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Carrots: Preheat the oven to 425ºF. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Scrub the carrots clean and remove their tops. Peel the carrots if desired, and cut larger carrots in half lengthwise to ensure even roasting.
- Season Carrots: Place the prepared carrots on the lined baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the carrots and toss them until evenly coated. Sprinkle fresh thyme, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper over the carrots, gently tossing again to distribute the seasonings.
- Roast Carrots: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 18 to 27 minutes, depending on their size. Toss the carrots halfway through cooking to promote even roasting. The carrots should be fork tender and caramelized on the outside when done.
- Prepare Whipped Feta: While the carrots are roasting, prepare or have ready your whipped feta cheese. Spread the whipped feta evenly onto a large serving platter, creating a flavorful base for the roasted carrots.
- Assemble and Garnish: Once the carrots are roasted, place them on top of the whipped feta spread. Drizzle generously with hot honey or regular honey, sprinkle chopped pistachios over the dish, and finish by scattering chopped fresh parsley, chives, and/or dill as garnish.
- Serve: Serve immediately while the carrots are warm, allowing the contrast of the sweet honey, savory feta, and fresh herbs to shine. Enjoy this vibrant side dish or appetizer!
Notes
- Choose small to medium carrots for optimal roasting; larger carrots should be halved lengthwise for even cooking.
- For a milder flavor, peel the carrots before roasting.
- Adjust honey drizzle to taste; hot honey adds a spicy kick while regular honey offers sweetness.
- Chopped pistachios add texture and a nutty flavor but can be substituted with toasted walnuts or almonds.
- Fresh herbs can be varied according to preference; parsley, dill, and chives all complement the flavors well.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the contrast between warm carrots and creamy feta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian