How to Make Roasted Carrots Thanksgiving

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process on how to make perfectly roasted carrots with a delightful garlicky twist. This dish is a fantastic way to elevate the natural sweetness of carrots, creating a flavorful and healthy side that pairs well with various mains or serves as a satisfying vegetarian option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these roasted carrots, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 kg / 2 lb carrots, peeled and ends trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, minced using a garlic press or finely grated using a microplane (optional)
• Extra Flavoring Options (see Note 3)
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Carrots: Begin by preheating your oven to 220°C/430°F (200°C fan). A well-preheated oven ensures the carrots cook evenly and develop a delicious caramelized exterior. Cut the peeled and trimmed carrots on the diagonal into 5cm / 2″ lengths. If some carrots are thicker, halve them lengthwise, so all pieces are roughly the same width.
2. Drizzle and Season: Place the carrot pieces on a baking tray, then drizzle them with the olive oil. Sprinkle the salt and black pepper evenly over the carrots. Toss the carrots gently to ensure they are well coated with the oil and seasoning.
3. Roast for 20 Minutes: Spread the seasoned carrots out on the baking tray and roast them in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. This initial roasting allows the carrots to begin softening and developing some color.
4. Flip and Add Garlic: Remove the tray from the oven, and push the carrots to one end. Add the minced or grated garlic to the empty space on the tray. You can also add any other optional flavoring options at this point. Return the tray to the oven and roast for an additional 10 minutes. This step infuses the carrots with the delightful aroma of garlic and allows them to become tender and golden.
5. Coat in Garlic and Juices: Take the tray out of the oven and gently toss the carrots to ensure they are evenly coated in the garlicky oil and flavorful juices from the roasting process.
6. Sprinkle with Fresh Parsley: To add a burst of freshness and color, sprinkle the roasted carrots with freshly chopped parsley just before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy!: Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving platter and present them as a delicious and visually appealing side dish or a standalone vegetarian option. Savor the delightful flavors and enjoy the compliments!

Garlic Roasted Carrots

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Q: Can I use baby carrots for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use baby carrots in this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as baby carrots may cook faster than larger ones. Adjust the roasting time accordingly.
2. Q: Can I add other vegetables alongside the carrots? A: Absolutely! Roasted carrots pair well with other vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even onions. Just ensure that the vegetables you choose have a similar cooking time.
3. Q: Can I make this dish in advance? A: While it’s best to serve roasted carrots fresh out of the oven, you can prepare them in advance and reheat them just before serving. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
4. Q: Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh? A: Fresh parsley offers a vibrant flavor and appearance, but if you don’t have it, dried parsley can be a substitute. However, reduce the quantity, as dried herbs are more potent.
5. Q: Are roasted carrots healthy? A: Yes, roasted carrots are a healthy side dish. Carrots are rich in vitamins and minerals, and roasting them preserves their nutrients while adding a delicious caramelized taste.
6. Q: How can I add more spice to the dish? A: For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix before roasting.

Roasted carrots with garlic and fresh parsley are a simple yet delightful dish that brings out the best flavors of this humble root vegetable. The sweetness of the carrots combined with the aromatic garlic and the refreshing burst of parsley makes it a winner at any mealtime. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty roast, as a complement to a main course, or as a standalone vegetarian option, these roasted carrots are sure to impress. So, grab those carrots, fire up the oven, and get ready to savor the delectable taste of these roasted gems.