Crispy Smashed Carrots: A Delightfully Irresistible Side Dish Recipe

Introduction

Crispy smashed carrots are a delicious and easy side dish that brings a delightful twist to simple carrots. By boiling and then roasting them with Parmesan and spices, you get a flavorful and crispy bite that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb carrots (peeled and cut into thick rounds)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, chopped)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Boil the carrot rounds in salted water for 10-12 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain and let them cool.
3. Step 3: Place the cooled carrots on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each round gently with the bottom of a glass.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the carrots with olive oil, then season evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the carrots.
6. Step 6: Roast the carrots in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they turn golden brown and crispy.
7. Step 7: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• Try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle kick.
• Use pecorino cheese instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• To make it vegan, skip the cheese and sprinkle nutritional yeast before roasting.
• Make sure the carrots are thoroughly drained and cooled before smashing to avoid sogginess.

Storage

Store leftover crispy smashed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to help retain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep them from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots for this recipe?

Baby carrots can be used, but their smaller size may require shorter boiling and roasting times. Adjust accordingly to avoid overcooking.

What can I serve with crispy smashed carrots?

They make a great side for roasted chicken, grilled meats, or vegetarian mains like quinoa bowls and grain salads.

Crispy Smashed Carrots: A Delightfully Irresistible Side Dish Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 431 reviews

• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Crispy Smashed Carrots are a delectable side dish featuring tender boiled carrots flattened and roasted to golden, crispy perfection with a flavorful blend of olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Garnished with fresh parsley, this recipe offers a simple yet irresistible way to elevate ordinary carrots into a crowd-pleasing delight.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
2. Boil Carrots: Boil the carrot rounds in salted water for 10-12 minutes until they are fork-tender. Then drain the carrots and allow them to cool slightly so they are easier to handle.
3. Smashed Carrots: Place the cooled carrot rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each round to flatten them without breaking them apart.
4. Season: Drizzle the flattened carrots with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper for a rich, smoky, and savory flavor profile.
5. Add Cheese: Generously sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each smashed carrot piece, which will create a wonderful crispy cheese crust when roasted.
6. Roast: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly and achieve a crispy texture.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the crispy smashed carrots from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Boil carrots until just fork-tender to avoid them becoming mushy when smashed and roasted.
• Flipping halfway through roasting ensures even crispiness on both sides.
• Feel free to experiment with other seasonings like thyme or rosemary for flavor variations.
• Use a sturdy glass or small pan bottom for smashing to keep the carrots intact.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: crispy smashed carrots, roasted carrots, Parmesan carrot recipe, easy vegetable side dish, healthy carrot recipe