Crispy Smashed Carrots Recipe

Introduction

Crispy smashed carrots are a delightful twist on a simple vegetable side dish. Roasted to golden perfection with a savory Parmesan and spice coating, they offer both texture and flavor that will please any palate.

Ingredients

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds
• 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

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Boil the carrot rounds in salted water for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
3. Step 3: Arrange the carrots on the prepared baking sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to gently press down each round, flattening them slightly.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the carrots with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
5. Step 5: Roast in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the carrots halfway through. Roast until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
6. Step 6: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, try broiling the carrots for the last 2 minutes of cooking—just watch closely to prevent burning.
• Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
• You can use baby carrots instead of thick rounds, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Storage

Store leftover crispy smashed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soft.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use raw carrots without boiling first?

Boiling or steaming the carrots before smashing ensures they become tender enough to flatten without breaking apart and roast evenly. Using raw carrots would result in a crunchier texture but may not flatten well.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you need a dairy-free or vegan alternative, nutritional yeast works well to add a cheesy flavor. For other cheeses, Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great options with similar taste profiles.

Crispy Smashed Carrots Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 93 reviews

These Crispy Smashed Carrots are a delicious and easy side dish featuring tender boiled carrots that are gently smashed and roasted to achieve golden, crispy edges. Flavored with garlic powder, smoked paprika, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of olive oil, this recipe offers a flavorful and healthy way to enjoy carrots.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Carrots

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds

Seasonings & 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

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Boil Carrots: Place the peeled and thick carrot rounds into salted boiling water and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until they become fork-tender. Once done, drain and allow them to cool slightly so they are easier to handle.
3. Slam and Flatten: Arrange the boiled carrot rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or a measuring cup, gently press down on each carrot round to flatten them slightly without breaking them apart completely.
4. Season Carrots: Drizzle the flattened carrots with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over them. Follow with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
5. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes. Flip the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure they crisp up evenly and develop golden-brown edges.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once crispy and golden, remove the carrots from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot for best taste and texture.

Notes

• Ensure carrots are evenly sliced to promote uniform cooking.
• Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference.
• Use fresh Parmesan cheese for optimal flavor and texture.
• For extra crispiness, you can broil the carrots for 1-2 minutes at the end of roasting but watch carefully to avoid burning.
• This recipe can be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting with a plant-based alternative.

Keywords: Crispy carrots, smashed carrots, roasted carrots, Parmesan carrots, healthy side dish, easy carrot recipe