Looking for a vibrant and flavorful side dish that will elevate your meal to new heights? Look no further than these Roasted Carrots with Orange Zest! Bursting with sweetness and a hint of citrus, this recipe transforms simple carrots into a gourmet delight that will impress your family and friends. In just 35 minutes, you can create a colorful dish that not only looks stunning on the plate but also tantalizes the taste buds. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how to make your meals shine with the bright flavors of roasted carrots!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Wash the carrots thoroughly under cool running water. Peel the carrots using a vegetable peeler, then cut them into uniform sticks approximately 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick to ensure even roasting.
- Place the carrot sticks in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil over the carrots, then sprinkle salt and black pepper. Gently toss the carrots to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
- Spread the seasoned carrot sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and caramelization.
- Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning them once halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The carrots should be tender and have golden-brown edges when done.
- Remove the roasted carrots from the oven. Immediately sprinkle freshly grated orange zest over the hot carrots to release the citrusy aromatics.
- Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot as a delicious and nutritious side dish.
Tips
- Choose the Right Carrots: Opt for fresh, firm carrots for the best flavor and texture. Baby carrots can also be used, but make sure they are of similar size for even cooking.
- Uniform Cuts: Cut your carrot sticks into uniform sizes (about 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick) to ensure they roast evenly and caramelize beautifully.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which prevents that delicious caramelization.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices! A pinch of garlic powder or thyme can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the roasted carrots right after they come out of the oven. The orange zest will release its oils and aroma when it hits the warm carrots, enhancing the overall experience.
- Make It a Meal: These roasted carrots pair wonderfully with grilled meats or as a colorful addition to grain bowls. Consider adding them to your favorite dishes for a nutritious boost!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
