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Ingredients Recipe

Ingredients Recipe

4.8 from 7 reviews

Smashed Carrots are a delicious and easy-to-make roasted vegetable side dish featuring tender boiled carrots flattened and baked with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for a crispy, flavorful finish. Garnished with fresh parsley, this recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and savory notes, ideal for a healthy, satisfying accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Carrots

  • 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds

Seasoning

  • 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

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy clean-up.
  2. Boil the Carrots: Place the peeled and sliced carrot rounds in a pot of salted boiling water and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but still hold their shape. Drain and let them cool slightly to handle.
  3. Smash the Carrots: Arrange the boiled carrots spaced out on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press down on each carrot round to flatten it slightly, creating more surface area for roasting.
  4. Season and Add Cheese: Drizzle the flattened carrots evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over them, then top with grated Parmesan cheese, distributing it evenly for a crispy golden crust.
  5. Roast the Carrots: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the carrots for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking. Roast until they turn crisp and golden brown on both sides.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the carrots from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve while hot for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Boiling the carrots before roasting ensures they are tender inside and crispy outside.
  • Flipping the carrots halfway through roasting helps achieve an even golden brown color.
  • For a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast.
  • Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used if unavailable.
  • Use fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, but other herbs like thyme or chives can also work.

Nutrition

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