These Roasted Carrots are a simple yet flavorful side dish perfect for Easter dinner. Lightly seasoned and roasted to caramelized perfection, they bring out the natural sweetness of the carrots while maintaining a tender texture. Whether served alongside ham, lamb, or a vegetarian main course, this dish adds a colorful and nutritious touch to your Easter table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Easter – A classic and elegant side dish that complements any main course.
- Naturally Sweet and Flavorful – Roasting enhances the natural sugars in carrots.
- Quick and Easy – Minimal ingredients and prep time make it a stress-free dish.
- Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
- Customizable – Add herbs, honey, or spices for different flavor variations.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into even pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or parsley (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the carrots: Peel and slice carrots into evenly sized pieces for even roasting.
- Season: In a bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Roast: Spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and caramelized.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Honey Glazed Carrots – Drizzle with 1 tbsp honey before roasting for extra sweetness.
- Garlic Herb Carrots – Add 1 tsp minced garlic and a sprinkle of rosemary.
- Spicy Roasted Carrots – Sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Lemon Roasted Carrots – Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a bright flavor.
- Balsamic Glazed Carrots – Toss with 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar before roasting for a tangy twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
- Freezing: Roasted carrots can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?
Yes, baby carrots work well and require no peeling—just adjust the roasting time as they may cook faster.
How do I get extra caramelized roasted carrots?
Roast at a slightly higher temperature (425°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the carrots in advance and reheat them before serving.
What herbs go well with roasted carrots?
Thyme, rosemary, parsley, and dill all pair nicely with roasted carrots.
Can I add other vegetables to roast with the carrots?
Yes, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes all roast well together.
Do I need to peel the carrots before roasting?
Peeling is optional, but it helps create a smoother texture. Simply scrub them clean if leaving the skin on.
Can I roast carrots without oil?
Yes, use vegetable broth or lemon juice instead of oil for a lighter version.
What is the best way to cut carrots for roasting?
Slice them into evenly sized sticks or rounds to ensure even cooking.
Can I roast frozen carrots?
Yes, but they may release more moisture, so increase the roasting time slightly to achieve caramelization.
What main dishes pair well with roasted carrots?
They complement roasted lamb, ham, chicken, or vegetarian mains like lentil loaf or mushroom Wellington.
Conclusion
These Roasted Carrots are a simple yet elegant addition to any Easter meal. With their natural sweetness enhanced by roasting, they pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Whether served with fresh herbs, a honey glaze, or a balsamic drizzle, this quick and easy side dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best flavor and texture!
Print
Roasted Carrots
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Roasted Carrots are a sweet and savory Easter side dish, perfect for complementing any holiday dinner. Roasted to caramelized perfection with a touch of olive oil and seasonings, these easy oven-baked carrots pair beautifully with ham, lamb, or any Easter feast.
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby carrots (or whole carrots, peeled and sliced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and honey/maple syrup (if using).
- Spread carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of garlic powder or balsamic vinegar before roasting.
- Use rainbow carrots for a colorful presentation.
- Serve with a dollop of herbed butter or tahini drizzle for added richness.
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