Here is a detailed introduction to oven-roasted carrots:

Oven-Roasted Carrots

Introduction: Oven-roasted carrots are a delicious side dish that pairs well with almost any main course. This dish features tender, flavorful roasted carrots, perfectly seasoned for a delightful taste. It's not only suitable for weekday dinners but also shines at parties and meal preparations. You can customize the spices to your liking, and these carrots are sure to become your favorite!

Features:

Quick and Easy: A delicious side dish can be prepared in under 45 minutes with just 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time.

Customizable Flavor: Add your personal touch using your favorite spices.

Healthy Choice: Nutritious and low in calories, contributing to a balanced diet.

Versatile Pairing: Works with a variety of main courses and is suitable for any occasion.

Prepare-Friendly: Can be prepared ahead of time and enjoyed for a week.

Tools and Equipment Needed:

Baking pan

Peeler

Knife

Mixing bowl

Ingredients:

Carrots: 2 lbs

Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tbsp

Black pepper: 1/2 tsp

Onion powder: 1/2 tsp

Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp

Italian seasoning: 1/2 tsp

Instructions:

Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature helps caramelize the carrots, enhancing their natural sweetness.

Prepare carrots: Wash and peel the carrots, removing any dirt or blemishes. Cut each carrot lengthwise in half, then cut each half into smaller, bite-sized pieces.

Arrange on baking pan: Arrange the cut carrots evenly on a baking pan. Make sure not to overcrowd them for proper baking.

Seasoning: Drizzle the carrots with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and italian seasoning.

Stir: Stir the carrots with your hands or a spatula until they are evenly coated with oil and spices.

Roast: Roast in a preheated oven for 30 minutes. Check with a fork to see if they are tender.

Finish cooking: If not tender enough, continue roasting, checking every 5 minutes, until they reach your desired tenderness.

Serving suggestions:

Pair with protein: The sweetness of the carrots complements the rich flavors of dishes such as roasted chicken, roasted salmon, or pork chops.

Add to salads: Add warm roasted carrots to mixed green salads or quinoa salads for warmth and flavor.

As a topping: Place sliced roasted carrots on tortillas or add them to pizzas for a unique crunch.

Tips:

Use fresh carrots: Fresh carrots have a better flavor and texture. When shopping, choose firm, brightly colored carrots.

Cut evenly: Ensure the carrot pieces are similar in size to ensure even cooking.

Don't overcrowd: Spread the carrots out on the baking sheet; this helps them bake rather than steam.

Try different spices: Experiment with different spices, such as cumin or chili powder, to customize your flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the best oven temperature for baking carrots?: The ideal temperature is 425°F (218°C). This high temperature helps caramelize the sugars, enhancing their natural sweetness.

How long do carrots need to bake?: Usually 30 minutes at 425°F. However, larger pieces may require more time, so check for tenderness with a fork.

Can I bake them with other vegetables?: Absolutely! You can add other vegetables such as potatoes, parsnips, or bell peppers. However, note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and type of vegetables.

How to make roasted carrots crispy?: To get crispy edges, make sure the baking sheet is preheated before placing the carrots in. Also, don't overcrowd them and use enough oil to promote browning.

Nutritional Information (per cup, approx. 140g):

Calories: 115 calories

Sugar: 6g

Sodium: 96mg

Fat: 5g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Unsaturated Fat: 4g

Trans Fat: 0g

Carbohydrates: 18g

Fiber: 6g

Protein: 1g

Cholesterol: 0mg