Description
Roasted carrots are a simple, flavorful side dish featuring tender carrots with caramelized sweetness and crispy edges. Quick to prepare and versatile, this recipe uses minimal ingredients and high heat roasting to create a healthy and delicious vegetable that complements any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh medium-sized carrots, peeled and cut into uniform sticks or halves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Carrots: Peel the carrots and cut them into uniform sticks or halves to ensure even roasting and tender texture.
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C) for high heat roasting to achieve caramelized, golden edges.
- Toss with Oil and Seasoning: In a mixing bowl, drizzle olive oil over the carrots, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Gently toss to coat evenly. Add fresh herbs and honey or maple syrup if using.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring enough space between pieces to prevent steaming and promote caramelization.
- Roast Until Tender: Roast in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, turning the carrots halfway through to allow even browning. Carrots should be fork-tender with golden brown edges.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Notes
- Choose firm, brightly colored medium-sized carrots for the best sweetness and texture.
- Cut carrots evenly to ensure uniform cooking and prevent some pieces from burning.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to allow sufficient air circulation and caramelization.
- Roast at a high temperature (425°F) for crispy edges without drying out the carrots.
- Turn the carrots halfway through roasting to brown all sides evenly.
- Add fresh herbs or a squeeze of citrus juice just before serving to brighten the flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: roasted carrots, vegetable side dish, easy roasted carrots, healthy side, caramelized carrots
