Skillet Carrots & Apples with Whipped Feta and Ginger Honey
Description
This dish is a beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. Tender skillet-caramelized carrots and apples are lightly spiced and glazed with warm ginger honey, then finished with a cloud of tangy whipped feta. It’s perfect as a holiday side dish, a brunch plate, or even a light vegetarian meal. The natural sweetness of apples and honey pairs wonderfully with the salty feta and aromatic ginger.
Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: ~25 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
For the Skillet Carrots & Apples
4 medium carrots, peeled & sliced diagonally
2 apples (Honeycrisp or Gala), sliced (leave skin on)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
For the Whipped Feta
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup Greek yogurt (or cream cheese for richer texture)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice
For Ginger Honey Drizzle
2 tbsp honey
½ tsp grated ginger
1 tsp warm water (optional, to thin)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Whip the Feta
Add feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, and lemon juice to a food processor.
Blend until smooth, creamy, and fluffy.
Set aside in the fridge.
Cook the Carrots
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add carrots and a pinch of salt.
Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just tender and lightly golden.
Add Apples & Flavor
Add apple slices, honey, grated ginger, cinnamon (if using), and black pepper.
Cook for 5–7 minutes until apples soften and everything is lightly caramelized.
Make Ginger Honey
Mix honey and grated ginger in a small bowl.
Add warm water if you want a thinner drizzle.
Assemble & Serve
Spread whipped feta on a serving plate.
Spoon warm carrots and apples over the top.
Drizzle with ginger honey and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with roasted chicken, turkey, or lamb
Serve as a holiday side dish
Enjoy with crusty bread for a vegetarian brunch
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Whipped feta can be made 2 days ahead. Reheat carrots & apples gently before serving.
Q: What apples work best?
Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji are ideal — sweet with a slight crunch.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Replace whipped feta with whipped hummus or cashew cream.
Q: Is fresh ginger necessary?
Fresh ginger gives the best aroma, but ¼ tsp ground ginger can work in a pinch.
Q: Can I add nuts?
Absolutely! Toasted walnuts or pecans add great crunch.