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Crispy Smashed Carrots Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 73 reviews

Crispy smashed carrots are a flavorful and healthy side dish featuring tender boiled carrots smashed and roasted to achieve crispy edges and a soft interior. Seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, and optionally topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes. Easy to prepare and versatile, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses and suits vegetarian and gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • Fresh carrots – 1 pound

Seasonings

  • Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Salt – 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Paprika – 1/2 teaspoon

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley, chopped – 1 tablespoon
  • Parmesan cheese, grated – 2 tablespoons

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for roasting the carrots.
  2. Boil the carrots: In a large pot of salted water, boil the fresh carrots until they become fork-tender, approximately 10 to 15 minutes depending on their size.
  3. Drain and prepare carrots: Drain the cooked carrots well and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
  4. Smash the carrots: Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each carrot to flatten it slightly, increasing surface area for crispiness.
  5. Season and oil: Drizzle olive oil evenly over all the smashed carrots to coat them thoroughly. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika evenly over them to impart robust flavors.
  6. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the carrots for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure both sides become golden and crispy.
  7. Add Parmesan (optional): In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the carrots to melt and add savory richness.
  8. Garnish and serve: Remove the carrots from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Notes

  • Boil carrots ahead of time and refrigerate to save prep time for meals.
  • For a vegan version, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese substitute.
  • Customize seasoning with cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.
  • Store roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: crispy smashed carrots, roasted carrots, healthy side dish, vegetarian side, gluten free side, easy vegetable recipe, carrot recipe

Find it online: https://biteandenjoy.com/crispy-smashed-carrots-recipe/