Hot Honey Roasted Carrots with Goat Cheese Recipe

Are you craving a side dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors? Look no further than hot honey-roasted carrots with goat cheese. This delicious dish takes the natural sweetness of roasted carrots and combines it with the kick of hot honey and the creamy texture of goat cheese, making it a great addition to any meal.

Health Benefits of Carrots and Goat Cheese

Both carrots and goat cheese offer numerous health benefits. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and fiber, promoting good eye health and digestion, while goat cheese is lower in lactose than cow’s milk cheese, making it easier for many people to digest. Combining these two ingredients creates a flavorful and nutrient-packed side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

For those interested in the health benefits of carrots, check out this guide to carrot nutrition for more information on their benefits. Additionally, for a quick and healthy alternative, check out the Honey Roasted Carrots in the Air Fryer for a similarly delightful take on roasted carrots using an air fryer.

What is Hot Honey?

Hot honey is a combination of honey and chili flakes, offering a blend of sweetness and heat that adds complexity to your dishes. You can make it easily by heating honey and infusing it with red pepper flakes, or you can buy it pre-made. Hot honey adds a rich and spicy layer to this recipe, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the roasted carrots.

If you’d like to make your own, here’s a great recipe for homemade hot honey. For a twist, you might also enjoy a variation on this recipe that features Hot Honey Roasted Carrots with a Honey Garlic Glaze.

Ingredients for Hot Honey Roasted Carrots with Goat Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish:

• 1 lb carrots (baby or large carrots)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp hot honey
• 2 oz goat cheese (crumbled or soft)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Carrots

Begin by washing and peeling the carrots. If you’re using more giant carrots, slice them into uniform pieces to ensure even roasting. Baby carrots can be roasted whole for a more rustic look.

2. Roast the Carrots

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Toss the carrots in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and spread them out on a baking sheet.
• Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The carrots should be tender and caramelized.

3. Add the Hot Honey and Goat Cheese

After removing the carrots from the oven, drizzle them with hot honey while they are still warm so the honey soaks into the roasted carrots. Then, crumble the goat cheese over the top, allowing it to soften from the heat of the carrots.

4. Garnish and Serve

Finish by garnishing with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish is incredibly versatile, and you can quickly adapt it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan option: Swap the goat cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Add texture: Sprinkle toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy finish.
• Spice it up: Adjust the heat of the hot honey by adding more or fewer chili flakes.

Pair these hot honey-roasted carrots with roast chicken or a grain salad for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

With the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors, this hot honey-roasted carrots with goat cheese recipe will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether you’re preparing it as a side dish or as part of a larger meal, it’s a surefire way to impress your family and guests.

For more inspiration and variations, try Hot Honey Roasted Carrots, a recipe that showcases another delightful twist on this flavor combination!