Smashed Carrots with Parmesan and Smoked Paprika Recipe

Introduction

Crispy Smashed Carrots transform simple carrots into a delightful side dish with tender centers and caramelized, crunchy edges. This easy recipe combines boiling, smashing, and roasting techniques, enhanced by savory garlic, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful finish.

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 your 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 10–12 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
3. Step 3: Arrange the carrots on the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each carrot with the bottom of a glass or measuring cup until about half its original thickness.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the carrots with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Evenly distribute the grated Parmesan on top.
5. Step 5: Roast the carrots for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they develop crisp, golden-brown edges.
6. Step 6: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot for best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• To make this dish vegan, substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Use a firm, flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup to achieve even smashing and consistent cooking.
• For an extra flavor boost, add a sprinkle of lemon zest or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
• Serve with garlic aioli or tahini dip as a tasty appetizer or snack option.

Storage

Store leftover smashed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the carrots ahead of time?

Yes, you can boil and smash the carrots in advance and keep them refrigerated. When ready to serve, add the olive oil, seasonings, and Parmesan, then roast as directed.

What does smashing the carrots do?

Smashing increases the surface area, allowing more browning and caramelization during roasting. This creates crispy edges and a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots.

Smashed Carrots with Parmesan and Smoked Paprika Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 435 reviews

• Author: Sarah
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Crispy Smashed Carrots are a delicious and nutritious vegetable side dish that combines boiled and roasted carrots flattened to increase surface area for perfect caramelization. Coated in olive oil, seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, these carrots boast a delightful contrast of tender interiors and crispy edges. This recipe is easy to prepare, gluten-free, vegetarian, and can be made vegan by substituting Parmesan cheese, making it an ideal healthy accompaniment for many meals or a tasty snack.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Carrots

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds

Seasonings and 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)

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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 carrot rounds in salted boiling water and cook for 10–12 minutes until they are just fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain and let them cool slightly for easier handling and better texture.
3. Smash Carrots: Arrange the drained carrots on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press each carrot round to flatten it to about half of its original thickness, ensuring an even smash for uniform roasting.
4. Season Carrots: Drizzle the smashed carrots evenly with olive oil. Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the carrots.
5. Roast Carrots: Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure both sides become crisp and golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once roasted to perfection, garnish the crispy smashed carrots with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Boil carrots until just tender to avoid mushiness and maintain firmness for smashing.
• Smash carrots gently and evenly using a flat-bottomed object to maximize surface area for roasting.
• Use parchment paper or a silicone mat on the baking sheet for easier clean-up and to prevent sticking.
• Flip carrots halfway through roasting to achieve even caramelization and crispiness on both sides.
• For vegan option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to retain crispiness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: smashed carrots, roasted carrots, crispy carrots, vegetable side dish, Parmesan carrots, healthy side dish, gluten free, vegetarian