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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
