Whipped Goat Cheese with Honey-Roasted Carrots & Za’atar
Whipped Goat Cheese with Honey-Roasted Carrots & Za’atar is a delightful dish that combines the creamy richness of goat cheese with the sweetness of honey-roasted carrots. This recipe is not only easy to make but also offers a beautiful presentation, making it perfect for gatherings, casual get-togethers, or a cozy night in. With the savory touch of za’atar spice, this dish is sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for many reasons. Firstly, the flavors work beautifully together. The sweetness of the roasted carrots pairs wonderfully with the tangy whipped goat cheese. Secondly, it is easy to prepare and doesn’t require any special cooking skills. Lastly, it is versatile; you can serve it as an appetizer or a light meal whenever you want something tasty and satisfying.
How to Make Whipped Goat Cheese with Honey-Roasted Carrots & Za’atar
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) baby carrots or thinly sliced carrots
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon za’atar spice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 oz (170g) goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Extra drizzle of honey (optional)
- Chopped fresh herbs (parsley or mint) (optional)
- Toasted nuts or seeds (like pistachios or sunflower seeds) (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, toss the baby carrots with olive oil, honey, za’atar, salt, and pepper until they are well coated.
- Spread the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast them for 20–25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.
- While the carrots are roasting, place the softened goat cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt into a food processor.
- Blend the mixture until it is smooth and fluffy.
- Once the carrots are done, spread the whipped goat cheese onto a serving plate or shallow bowl.
- Top the cheese with the warm roasted carrots and drizzle with extra honey if you like.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs and nuts or seeds, if desired.
- Serve it as a side dish, appetizer, or a light lunch with crusty bread or pita.
How to Serve Whipped Goat Cheese with Honey-Roasted Carrots & Za’atar
You can serve this dish warm or at room temperature. It works wonderfully as an appetizer or side dish. Pair it with some crusty bread or pita to soak up the whipped goat cheese and enjoy the sweet, roasted carrots. It’s perfect for sharing, making it a great choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.
How to Store Whipped Goat Cheese with Honey-Roasted Carrots & Za’atar
If you have leftovers, you can store the whipped goat cheese and roasted carrots separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The goat cheese can be kept for about 3–5 days and the roasted carrots for about 2–3 days. When you are ready to eat, you can reheat the carrots in the oven or microwave, then serve them on top of the goat cheese.
Tips to Make Whipped Goat Cheese with Honey-Roasted Carrots & Za’atar
- Make sure to cut the carrots evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Feel free to adjust the honey and za’atar to your taste preferences.
- Experiment with different nuts or seeds for added crunch and flavor.
- Adding some lemon zest to the goat cheese mixture can give it an extra zing!
Variation
You can easily substitute the baby carrots with other vegetables like sweet potatoes, regular carrots, or even beets. Each will provide a unique flavor while still complementing the whipped goat cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, if you don’t have goat cheese, you can use cream cheese or ricotta for a different flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the whipped goat cheese and roast the carrots in advance. Simply store them separately in the fridge and assemble just before serving.
3. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
You can substitute the goat cheese with a vegan cheese spread and the honey with agave syrup or maple syrup to make it vegan-friendly.
