Imagine transforming ordinary carrots into a mouthwatering side dish that's so delicious, it'll steal the spotlight from the main course! These Simple Herb Seasoned Carrots are not just a side dish; they're a culinary experience that combines the natural sweetness of perfectly roasted carrots with a harmonious blend of aromatic herbs. Whether you're a busy home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and peel the carrots thoroughly, then slice them diagonally into uniform pieces approximately 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C), which will provide high heat for roasting the carrots and creating a slight caramelization.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced carrots with olive oil, ensuring each carrot piece is evenly coated with the oil.
- Sprinkle dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the carrots, then toss gently to distribute the herbs and seasonings uniformly.
- Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and browning.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15 minutes, stirring once halfway through to promote even cooking and caramelization.
- Remove from the oven when carrots are tender and have slightly crispy, golden edges. Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired, then serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm carrots for the best texture and flavor. Avoid carrots that are soft or have visible blemishes.
- Cut carrots into uniform sizes to ensure even roasting. Diagonal slices not only look professional but also maximize caramelization.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Give your carrots breathing room to roast, not steam. This helps achieve those delightful crispy edges.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- If you prefer a sweeter profile, you can add a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup before roasting.
- Use high-quality olive oil and freshly ground black pepper to elevate the overall taste of the dish.
- For a beautiful presentation, serve the carrots on a white or neutral-colored plate to make the vibrant orange color pop.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 78kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
