Savory Roasted Thyme Baby Carrots
Delightfully sweet and perfectly roasted, these Savory Roasted Thyme Baby Carrots are a simple yet stunning side dish that highlights the natural flavors of fresh vegetables. Roasting at high heat caramelizes the sugars in the carrots, bringing out an unparalleled sweetness while the dried thyme adds a fragrant, earthy note. Finished with a touch of lemon zest and freshly chopped green onions, this vibrant dish is sure to elevate any meal. Perfect for family dinners or dinner parties, this recipe brings a gourmet touch to your table with minimal effort.
4
Servings
30
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
baby carrots
1 lb (washed and trimmed)
olive oil
2 teaspoons (extra virgin preferred)
dried thyme
1 teaspoon (crushed)
salt
1/2 teaspoon
lemon zest
1 teaspoon (grated)
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
green onion
1 (finely chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) to ensure a crispy roasted finish.
2
In a large mixing bowl, add the washed and trimmed baby carrots. Pour in the olive oil, then sprinkle with the crushed thyme and salt. Toss the carrots well to ensure they are evenly coated.
3
Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded for optimal roasting.
4
Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes for even cooking. The carrots should be fork-tender and lightly browned when done.
5
Once roasted, remove the carrots from the oven and transfer them to a serving bowl.
6
Add the grated lemon zest and freshly ground black pepper to the warm carrots. Sprinkle with finely chopped green onions and toss gently to combine.
7
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information
1.25g
Fat
4.5g
Carbs
0.25g
Protein
1.25g
Fiber
52.5mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Roasted Thyme Baby Carrots?
They are a simple and stunning side dish featuring baby carrots roasted at high heat to caramelize their natural sugars, flavored with dried thyme and fresh lemon zest.
What is the main ingredient in this recipe?
The main ingredient is 1 pound of washed and trimmed baby carrots.
How long does it take to roast the carrots?
The carrots should be roasted for a total of 30 minutes.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (230 degrees Celsius) for a crispy finish.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses olive oil and plant-based seasonings.
Is this carrot dish gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 30 calories.
What kind of oil should I use for roasting?
The recipe recommends using 2 teaspoons of olive oil, preferably extra virgin.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
Yes, though the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of crushed dried thyme for an earthy note.
Why do I need to stir the carrots every 10 minutes?
Stirring every 10 minutes ensures even cooking and consistent browning on all sides.
How can I tell when the carrots are finished cooking?
The carrots are done when they are fork-tender and lightly browned.
When should the lemon zest be added?
The lemon zest should be added to the warm carrots after they have been removed from the oven.
What does lemon zest add to the flavor profile?
It adds a vibrant, fresh citrus note that balances the sweetness of the roasted carrots.
Can I substitute baby carrots with regular carrots?
Yes, but you should peel them and cut them into sizes similar to baby carrots to ensure they cook evenly.
Do the baby carrots need to be peeled?
The recipe specifies they should be washed and trimmed; peeling is optional for baby carrots.
How much salt is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Why is a high heat of 450 degrees Fahrenheit used?
High heat is essential for caramelizing the natural sugars in the carrots, which enhances their sweetness.
What garnish is used for the final presentation?
The dish is finished with a sprinkle of finely chopped green onions and freshly ground black pepper.
Can this recipe be prepared ahead of time?
While they can be reheated, they are best served immediately for the optimal flavor and roasted texture.
How should I store leftover roasted carrots?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What is the best way to reheat these carrots?
Reheating in the oven is recommended to maintain the roasted texture, though a microwave can also be used.
Is there any added sugar in this recipe?
No, there is no added sugar; the sweetness comes naturally from the roasting process.
What is the fiber content per serving?
Each serving provides 1.25 grams of fiber.
What can I use as a substitute for green onions?
Fresh chives or parsley can be used as a substitute for the green onion garnish.
Can I use other herbs besides thyme?
Yes, rosemary or oregano would also complement the flavor of roasted carrots.
Why shouldn't I overcrowd the carrots on the baking sheet?
Overcrowding causes the carrots to steam rather than roast, preventing them from getting crispy and browned.
Is this dish suitable for holiday meals?
Yes, its gourmet touch and vibrant colors make it an excellent side dish for family dinners or parties.
How much fat is in one serving?
There is approximately 1.25 grams of fat per serving.
Does this recipe contain any cholesterol?
No, this recipe is cholesterol-free.