Roasted Carrots with Tofu Ricotta (High-Protein, Dairy-Free)

This roasted carrots with vegan tofu ricotta recipe is a high-protein, dairy-free, whole-food plant-based side dish perfect for holidays or everyday meals. Creamy tofu ricotta, smoky roasted carrots, and nourishing ingredients make this vegan recipe healthy, delicious, and easy to prepare.

Roasted Carrots with Tofu Ricotta (High-Protein, Dairy-Free)

Prep time: 10 min  Cook time: 30 to 40 min.  Total time: 40 min

Ingredients:

Vegan Tofu Ricotta

• 454 g medium-firm or medium-soft tofu
• ¾ cup raw cashews (soaked 15 minutes in hot water than drain)
• ½ cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• Juice of 1½ lemons 
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 2–4 tablespoons water (adjust to desired creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 or 2 garlic cloves (depending on how garlicky you like it)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Roasted Carrots

• 8 small to medium carrots (peeled)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or oil of your choice)
  
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cumin
• 1 tsp Maple syrup 
• Pinch of salt

How to Make It

1. Roast the Carrots

1. Preheat your oven to 415°F (215°C).
2. Coat the carrots in olive oil, maple syrup, cayenne, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cumin, and salt.
3. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 30 to 40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
   

2. Make the Vegan Tofu Ricotta

1. Add tofu, soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, onion powder, garlic, salt, and water to a blender or food processor.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust:

• Add more nutritional yeast for stronger cheese flavor
• Add more lemon for brightness
• Add water for a smoother texture
• Add salt to deepen flavor

This ricotta is creamy, mild, and incredibly versatile. Adding the garlic clove gives it a perfect savory depth.

How to Serve

Serve the roasted carrots on a generous bed of tofu ricotta or plate the ricotta on the side as a spread or dip. Sprinkle parsley, pomegranate and pistachio nuts optional to make it extra fancy.  This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Holiday dinners
• Brunch spreads
• Vegan charcuterie boards
• Grain bowls
• Meal prep lunches
• Roasted potatoes or quinoa

Nutrition Information

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Nutrition Per Serving

• Calories: ~305
• Protein: ~19 g
• Healthy Fats: ~14.5 g
• Carbohydrates: ~20.5 g
• Fiber: ~4 g

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to increase plant-based protein while keeping meals clean, dairy-free, and nutrient-dense. The tofu, cashews, and nutritional yeast provide a balanced combination of protein and healthy fats, while the carrots add fiber, antioxidants, and natural sweetness.