Savory Herb-Roasted Baby Carrots
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Savory Herb-Roasted Baby Carrots, a vibrant and healthy side dish perfect for any meal. These tender, caramelized baby carrots are coated in a rich blend of olive oil and house seasoning, then roasted to perfection. Finished with a touch of butter and freshly chopped parsley, they bring a pop of color and taste to your table. Ideal for family dinners or holiday gatherings, this recipe is simple yet impressive, making it a must-try for any home cook.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
baby carrots
1 lb (cleaned and peeled)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
house seasoning
1 teaspoon (mixed)
butter
2 tablespoons (none)
parsley
2 tablespoons (chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2
In a large mixing bowl, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over 1 pound of baby carrots, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
3
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of house seasoning and toss well, so the carrots are evenly seasoned.
4
Transfer the seasoned carrots to a roasting pan, spreading them out in a single layer.
5
Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and starting to caramelize.
6
Once done, remove the roasting pan from the oven and immediately toss the carrots with 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley.
7
Serve warm and enjoy this delightful side dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Herb-Roasted Baby Carrots?
They are a vibrant and healthy side dish made by roasting tender baby carrots with olive oil and house seasoning, finished with butter and fresh parsley.
Do I need to peel baby carrots for this recipe?
Most store-bought baby carrots are pre-peeled, but the recipe recommends cleaning and peeling them if they are fresh or unpeeled for the best texture.
What oven temperature is best for roasting carrots?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for these baby carrots.
How long does it take to roast the carrots?
The carrots should roast for approximately 30 minutes until they are fork-tender and beginning to caramelize.
What is in house seasoning?
While recipes vary, house seasoning typically consists of a blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?
Yes, you can use regular carrots; simply peel them and cut them into uniform 2-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
The recipe contains butter. To make it dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative or use extra olive oil.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, baby carrots, olive oil, house seasoning, butter, and parsley are naturally gluten-free ingredients.
How do I ensure the carrots get caramelized?
Ensure the carrots are spread out in a single layer in the roasting pan so that they roast properly rather than steaming.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh parsley provides a better color and brighter taste. If using dried, use about one-third of the amount specified.
What should I serve with these roasted carrots?
They pair perfectly with roasted chicken, steak, pork chops, or as a side dish for holiday meals like turkey or ham.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can roast them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven just before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
Can I freeze roasted carrots?
You can freeze them for up to 3 months, though the texture may become slightly softer upon thawing and reheating.
What is the best way to reheat the carrots?
Reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the best texture.
Can I add a sweetener like honey or maple syrup?
Yes, you can drizzle a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup over the carrots during the last 10 minutes of roasting for a sweet glaze.
Why are my carrots still hard after 30 minutes?
Carrot size can vary; if they are thick, they may need an additional 5-10 minutes. Check them with a fork for tenderness.
Should I cover the pan with foil while roasting?
No, leave the pan uncovered to allow the carrots to brown and the natural sugars to caramelize.
Can I use avocado oil instead of olive oil?
Yes, avocado oil is a great substitute as it has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor.
Is this dish suitable for children?
Yes, the natural sweetness of carrots and the buttery finish make it a very family-friendly and kid-approved side dish.
How many people does one pound of carrots serve?
One pound of baby carrots typically serves 3 to 4 people as a side dish.
Can I add fresh garlic to this recipe?
Absolutely! Minced garlic can be tossed with the carrots before roasting for an extra savory flavor profile.
How do I know the carrots are fork-tender?
The carrots are fork-tender when a fork can easily pierce the thickest part of the carrot with very little resistance.
Can I use a baking sheet instead of a roasting pan?
Yes, a rimmed baking sheet works just as well as a roasting pan for this recipe.
What makes baby carrots convenient for roasting?
Baby carrots are convenient because they are uniform in size, which ensures they all cook at the same rate without extra chopping.
Can I add other herbs besides parsley?
Yes, herbs like fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill also complement roasted carrots beautifully.
Is this a low-calorie side dish?
While carrots are low in calories, the olive oil and butter add some fat. It remains a nutrient-dense and healthy choice.
Should I dry the carrots after cleaning them?
Yes, patting the carrots dry with a paper towel helps the oil and seasoning adhere better and helps them roast rather than steam.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to use two roasting pans or a very large baking sheet so the carrots aren't crowded.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
It can be made vegan by substituting the butter with a vegan butter brand or omitting it and using a drizzle of olive oil at the end.