Prepare to transform the humble carrot into a culinary masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! This Roasted Carrots with Orange Brown Butter and Sage recipe is not just a side dish – it's a flavor explosion that elevates ordinary vegetables into a gourmet experience. With a perfect balance of caramelized sweetness, nutty brown butter, and aromatic sage, these carrots are about to become the star of your dining table.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 orange, juiced and zested
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Wash and peel the carrots thoroughly. Cut them into uniform sticks approximately 3-4 inches long and about 1/2 inch thick to ensure even roasting.
- Arrange the carrot sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out to ensure they are not overcrowded, which allows for proper caramelization.
- Drizzle the carrots with a small amount of olive oil, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and caramelization.
- While the carrots are roasting, prepare the brown butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Continue cooking the butter until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma, approximately 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn the butter.
- Remove the brown butter from heat and immediately add the fresh orange zest and chopped sage. Stir to combine and release the herbs' aromatics.
- Once the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized, remove them from the oven. Transfer to a serving platter.
- Drizzle the orange brown butter and sage sauce over the roasted carrots. Squeeze fresh orange juice over the top for added brightness.
- Serve immediately while the carrots are hot and the butter sauce is warm, garnishing with additional fresh sage leaves if desired.
Tips
- Choose uniform-sized carrots to ensure even roasting and consistent texture.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet – give your carrots space to caramelize properly.
- Watch the brown butter carefully; it can quickly go from golden and nutty to burnt.
- Use fresh sage if possible, as it provides a more vibrant flavor than dried herbs.
- For extra flavor, try using different types of carrots like rainbow or heirloom varieties.
- If you want a slight char, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the maximum flavor and texture of the roasted carrots and warm brown butter sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 40mg
