Parmesan Roasted Carrots
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Transform your side dishes with these delicious Parmesan Roasted Carrots! Coated in a savory blend of olive oil, garlic, and grated Parmesan, these tender, caramelized carrots are the perfect complement to any meal. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite on your turkey veggie tray.
Parmesan Roasted Carrots are a delightful way to add flavor and nutrition to your meal. Whether served alongside your favorite protein or as part of a vegetable tray, these carrots are simple yet impressive!
Discover the Flavor Profile
The unique flavor profile of Parmesan Roasted Carrots makes them a standout side dish. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by the savory notes of roasted garlic and the rich, nutty taste of Parmesan cheese. This combination creates a delightful contrast that excites the palate. Each bite offers a tender, caramelized texture, making it difficult to resist going back for more.
Moreover, the process of roasting brings out the carrots' inherent sweetness, allowing them to caramelize beautifully. This method not only intensifies the flavors but also ensures that the carrots maintain their vibrant color. When paired with the aromatic garlic and crispy cheese, these roasted carrots transform from a simple vegetable to a gourmet side that elevates any meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Parmesan Roasted Carrots are versatile enough to be served at any gathering, from casual family dinners to festive holiday feasts. Their vibrant colors and appealing presentation make them an excellent choice for special occasions. Picture this dish on your Thanksgiving table or as a side at a summer barbecue; they are sure to impress your guests.
Additionally, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also forgiving, making it suitable for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. With minimal hands-on time and simple ingredients, it allows you to focus on other aspects of your meal. So whether you're meal prepping for the week or cooking for a crowd, these carrots are the perfect go-to side.
Nutritional Benefits
Carrots are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, which is vital for maintaining good vision, skin health, and a strong immune system. By roasting them with olive oil, you also benefit from healthy fats, which can aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the carrots. This makes Parmesan Roasted Carrots not only delicious but nourishing as well.
Furthermore, incorporating vegetables like carrots into your diet can contribute to overall health and wellness. They promote healthy digestion, support weight management, and may even reduce the risk of chronic diseases. With this simple and flavorful recipe, enjoying your daily servings of veggies has never been easier or more satisfying.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Mix ingredients thoroughly to ensure each carrot is well-coated.
Instructions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the carrots
In a mixing bowl, combine the baby carrots with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Roast the carrots
Spread the carrots out on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
Add Parmesan
During the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the carrots and return to the oven until golden and bubbly.
Serve
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious Parmesan Roasted Carrots!
Tips for Perfectly Roasted Carrots
For the best results, choose baby carrots for uniform cooking and sweetness. If you use larger carrots, cut them into even pieces to ensure they roast evenly. Additionally, do not overcrowd the baking sheet; giving them room to breathe helps achieve that irresistible caramelized exterior.
Another tip is to watch your roasting time closely. Depending on your oven, roasting times may vary, so begin checking for tenderness around the 20-minute mark. This ensures you get perfectly cooked carrots that are both tender and slightly crisp.
Serving Suggestions
These Parmesan Roasted Carrots are delicious on their own but can also be paired with a variety of main dishes. Their rich flavors complement roasted meats, grilled fish, or vegetarian options like quinoa and lentil salads. Consider serving them alongside a tangy yogurt sauce or balsamic reduction for an added layer of flavor.
For a more complete meal, serve the carrots over a bed of cooked grains such as rice or farro. The nutty flavors of the grains paired with the savory roasted carrots create a satisfying and wholesome dish that is sure to please any palate.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftover Parmesan Roasted Carrots, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can do so in the oven for that crispy texture or in the microwave for a quicker option. Just be aware that microwaving might result in a softer texture.
To refresh their flavor and texture when reheating in the oven, spread the carrots on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps regain some of the original crispiness while ensuring they are heated through.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?
Yes, just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
→ Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Roasted Carrots
Transform your side dishes with these delicious Parmesan Roasted Carrots! Coated in a savory blend of olive oil, garlic, and grated Parmesan, these tender, caramelized carrots are the perfect complement to any meal. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite on your turkey veggie tray.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the baby carrots with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Spread the carrots out on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
During the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the carrots and return to the oven until golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 5g