Smashed Carrots with Parmesan and Spices Recipe
Crispy Smashed Carrots are a flavorful and nutritious vegetable side dish that combines boiling, smashing, and roasting techniques to create tender centers with caramelized, crispy edges. Seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese, and garnished with fresh parsley, this recipe elevates simple carrots into a delicious, texturally interesting dish perfect for pairing with a variety of meals or enjoying as a snack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate cleanup.
- Boil Carrots: Place the carrot rounds in salted boiling water and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until they are fork-tender but not mushy. Drain them well and let cool slightly to make handling easier.
- Smash Carrots: Arrange the boiled carrots on the prepared baking sheet and gently press each piece with the bottom of a glass or measuring cup until flattened to about half their original thickness, ensuring even thickness for uniform roasting.
- Season and Coat: Drizzle olive oil evenly over the smashed carrots. Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top for a rich, crispy crust.
- Roast Carrots: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to achieve golden brown, crisp edges and caramelization.
- Garnish and Serve: Once roasted, remove the carrots and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot to enjoy the contrast between the tender interior and crispy exterior.
Notes
- Do not overcook the carrots during boiling to avoid mushiness; they should be just fork-tender.
- Use a firm, flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup to evenly smash the carrots for best roasting results.
- Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Flipping the carrots halfway through roasting ensures even crispiness on both sides.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
- To make this recipe vegan, substitute Parmesan with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
- Serve with dips like garlic aioli, balsamic glaze, or tahini for enhanced flavor.
Keywords: crispy smashed carrots, roasted carrots, vegetable side dish, easy carrot recipe, healthy carrot side, Parmesan carrots, smoked paprika carrots
