Crispy Smashed Carrots: Your New Obsession

Have you ever imagined transforming a simple carrot into a gourmet delight? Welcome to the world of crispy smashed carrots.

Ingredients List

For this culinary adventure, you will need:

• 2 pounds large carrots, peeled
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Flaky sea salt for finishing

If you’re not a fan of honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup. For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

This recipe takes less than 40 minutes, which is 30% quicker than most roasted vegetable recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Get a large pot of salted water boiling.

Step 2: Cooking the Carrots

Add the whole peeled carrots to the boiling water and cook for 12-15 minutes until they are tender but not mushy.

Step 3: Smashing the Carrots

Drain the carrots and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Gently smash each carrot to flatten it slightly. Arrange the smashed carrots on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Seasoning and Roasting

Drizzle the carrots with olive oil and season generously. Roast for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Final Touches

Immediately after removing from the oven, drizzle the carrots with a mixture of honey and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle with fresh herbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and flaky sea salt.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 210 calories, 7 grams of protein, 30 grams of carbohydrates, and 8 grams of fat. Additionally, due to the high amount of carrots used, this dish is rich in Vitamin A and dietary fiber.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a vegan version, you can replace honey with agave nectar and omit the Parmesan cheese. For a low-carb option, replace carrots with radishes.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy smashed carrots can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. They also make a great addition to a vegetarian buffet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overboiling the carrots can make them too soft to smash properly. Also, overcrowding the baking sheet can prevent the carrots from crisping up.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

This crispy smashed carrots recipe is a delightful way to turn a simple vegetable into a gourmet dish. Try it today and share your experience in the comments section below!