Oh, the sweet allure of honey and garlic—two flavors that could very well start a romance novel. Picture this: crisp autumn air, leaves crunching underfoot, and the warmth of a kitchen alive with the scent of roasting carrots.
It’s a dish that whispers promises of coziness, a side that somehow manages to outshine the main course. Trust me, even if you aren’t a fan of vegetables, these carrots might just change your mind.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleaning.
- Wash and peel the carrots, if desired, then cut them into smaller pieces if they are large.
- In a bowl, combine the carrots with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the carrots in the oven for 18-20 minutes if using baby or garden carrots, or 25-30 minutes for larger carrots, until they are golden and tender.
- Test the carrots with a fork to ensure they are tender, then serve warm, optionally garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of carrots, washed, peeled, and cut if large
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, plus additional to taste as needed
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 412 | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 10g | Sodium: 1968mg | Potassium: 1932mg | Fiber: 16g | Sugar: 28g | Vitamin A: 101040IU | Vitamin C: 35.6mg | Calcium: 200mg | Iron: 2mg
FAQ
- Do I need to peel carrots before roasting them?
- Peeling carrots before roasting is optional. While peeling can provide a cleaner look, it’s not necessary. If you decide not to peel, ensure you scrub them thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- How long should I roast carrots in the oven?
- Typically, carrots need about 20 minutes at 425°F. The high heat helps caramelize the outside for optimal flavor. Check them with a fork to see if they are tender; if so, they are ready.
- Can I use baby carrots for this recipe?
- Yes, baby carrots can be used and may require less roasting time. Due to their smaller size, start checking them after about 15 minutes to ensure they don’t overcook.
- How can I make sweeter roasted carrots?
- To create a sweeter version, simply add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the carrots before roasting.
- What is the best way to serve oven-roasted carrots?
- These carrots are versatile and can be served as a side dish for any holiday meal, paired with favorites like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and baked mac and cheese. For an added touch, garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- For an added touch of sweetness, consider incorporating a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to transform your dish into deliciously glazed roasted carrots.
- To achieve the best flavor, roast the carrots at a high temperature of 425°F, which helps in caramelizing their natural sugars for a more robust taste.
- If using baby carrots, start checking for doneness at around 15 minutes, as they may require less cooking time due to their smaller size.
- While peeling carrots is optional, doing so gives them a cleaner look. If you decide not to peel, ensure they are thoroughly scrubbed with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet Pan
- Parchment Paper
- Vegetable Brush (if you choose not to peel the carrots)
