Smashed Carrots with Parmesan and Spices Recipe
Smashed Carrots is a delightful side dish featuring tender boiled carrots that are gently flattened and roasted to golden perfection. This technique enhances caramelization and creates a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior, complemented by a savory blend of garlic, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Garnished with fresh parsley, it’s a flavorful, textured twist on traditional roasted carrots perfect as a healthy and vibrant accompaniment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds
Seasonings and Toppings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for roasting.
- Boil the carrots: In a pot with salted water, boil the carrot rounds for 10–12 minutes until they become fork-tender. Once done, drain and allow them to cool slightly to handle.
- Smash the carrots: Arrange the boiled carrots on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently flatten each carrot round to increase surface area for roasting.
- Season and oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the smashed carrots. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly on top. Then, spread the grated Parmesan cheese over the carrots.
- Roast the carrots: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20–25 minutes. Flip the carrots halfway through the cooking time to ensure they develop a crispy, golden-brown exterior on both sides.
- Garnish and serve: After roasting, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on the carrots. Serve hot to enjoy the perfect contrast of soft interiors and caramelized crispy edges.
Notes
- Ensure carrots are thick enough to hold their shape but tender after boiling for the best smashing effect.
- Use a sturdy glass or measuring cup to smash the carrots evenly without breaking them apart completely.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; adding more smoked paprika or Parmesan can intensify the flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, omit Parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Serve immediately after roasting for optimal texture, as the crispy edges soften if left too long.
Keywords: smashed carrots, roasted carrots, healthy side dish, caramelized carrots, Parmesan carrots, easy vegetable recipe, roasted vegetable side
