Crispy Smashed Carrots Recipe
Introduction
Crispy Smashed Carrots are a delightful twist on a simple vegetable side dish. Tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, they make a flavorful and healthy addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the carrots and cook until they are tender but not falling apart, about 10-15 minutes depending on size.
- Step 2: Drain the carrots and arrange them on a baking sheet. Use a heavy glass or the bottom of a sturdy cup to gently smash each carrot until they flatten but stay in one piece.
- Step 3: Drizzle the smashed carrots with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Step 4: Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
Tips & Variations
- Use young, tender carrots for best results as they mash easily and roast evenly.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting for extra flavor.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle with chili flakes or smoked paprika.
Storage
Store any leftover crispy smashed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other root vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, you can try this method with parsnips, turnips, or small potatoes for similar crispy results.
How do I know when the carrots are tender enough to smash?
Insert a fork into a carrot; it should slide in easily without the carrot falling apart. This usually takes 10-15 minutes of boiling depending on the carrot size.
PrintCrispy Smashed Carrots Recipe
Crispy Smashed Carrots are a delightful vegetable side dish featuring tender boiled carrots that are smashed and then oven-roasted to achieve a perfect crispy texture. Enhanced with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, this simple yet flavorful recipe makes a great accompaniment to any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, peeled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Boil the Carrots: Place peeled carrots in a large pot of boiling salted water and cook until they are tender enough to be pierced easily with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare for Roasting: Drain the carrots and arrange them on a baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or a sturdy utensil, gently smash each carrot to flatten it slightly while keeping it intact.
- Season and Roast: Drizzle the smashed carrots with olive oil, sprinkle minced garlic, salt, and black pepper evenly over them. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and slightly caramelized on the edges.
Notes
- Use carrots of similar size for even cooking.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before roasting.
- Make sure the carrots are flattened but still whole to maintain texture after roasting.
- If you prefer spicier, add a pinch of chili flakes.
Keywords: Crispy smashed carrots, roasted carrots, easy carrot side dish, healthy vegetable recipe, simple roasted vegetables
