Crispy Smashed Carrots with Garlic and Parmesan Recipe

Introduction

Crispy smashed carrots with garlic make a simple and delicious side dish that’s full of flavor and texture. This recipe transforms tender carrots into a crispy, savory treat perfect for any meal or snack.

Ingredients

• 1 pound small carrots, peeled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Boil or steam the peeled carrots for 10 to 12 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
3. Step 3: Arrange the cooked carrots on the prepared baking sheet, then gently flatten each one using the bottom of a glass or a fork.
4. Step 4: Drizzle olive oil over the carrots and evenly sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Step 5: Roast the carrots in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until edges are crispy and golden.
6. Step 6: If using parmesan, sprinkle it over the carrots during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm as a snack or side dish.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, use a convection oven setting if available, and spread the carrots in a single layer without overcrowding.
• Substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika to add a smoky depth of flavor.
• Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Parmesan cheese can be replaced with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Storage

Store leftover crispy smashed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 5 to 10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use larger carrots for this recipe?

While small carrots work best for quick cooking and smashing, you can use larger carrots by cutting them into smaller sections before boiling or steaming.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply omit the parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.

Crispy Smashed Carrots with Garlic and Parmesan Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 55 reviews

These Crispy Smashed Carrots with Garlic are a deliciously simple side dish featuring tender boiled carrots that are smashed and roasted to crispy perfection with a flavorful blend of garlic powder, paprika, and olive oil. Garnished with optional parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this recipe offers a healthy and savory snack or side dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with texture and flavor.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 pound small carrots, peeled

Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Toppings (Optional)

• 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
2. Cook Carrots: Boil or steam the peeled carrots for 10 to 12 minutes or until they become fork-tender. Drain well and allow them to cool slightly for easier handling.
3. Arrange and Smash Carrots: Place the cooked carrots evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press down on each carrot using the bottom of a glass or a fork until they are flattened but still intact.
4. Season Carrots: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the smashed carrots, then sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste, ensuring each carrot is well coated with seasoning.
5. Roast Until Crisp: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Flip the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping. Roast until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
6. Add Parmesan (Optional): If using parmesan, sprinkle it over the carrots during the final 5 minutes of roasting so it melts and forms a delicious crust.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the carrots from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm as a tasty snack or flavorful side dish.

Notes

• You can steam the carrots instead of boiling to retain more nutrients and flavor.
• Adjust seasoning quantities according to your taste preference.
• Use fresh garlic minced instead of garlic powder for a stronger garlic flavor.
• Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory topping; omit for a dairy-free version.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best crispiness.
• For extra crispiness, you can broil the carrots for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Keywords: crispy smashed carrots, roasted carrots, garlic carrots, healthy side dish, vegetarian carrot recipe, roasted vegetable snacks