Description
These Crispy Smashed Carrots offer a delightful twist on a classic side dish with a perfect balance of caramelized, crunchy texture and savory flavors from parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Easy to prepare and roast, they make a fantastic side dish, appetizer, or snack that pairs well with a variety of meals.
Ingredients
Carrot Preparation
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into uniform 2-inch pieces
Seasoning
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon coarse ground pepper
Instructions
- Boil the carrots: Place the peeled and cut carrots in a medium-sized saucepan. Cover them with water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the carrots are fork-tender.
- Drain and cool: Drain the carrots well and allow them to cool slightly so that they can be handled for smashing.
- Preheat the oven: While the carrots cool, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season the carrots: In a medium bowl, combine the cooled carrots, grated parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and coarse ground pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat each carrot piece evenly with the seasoning mixture.
- Smashed carrots arrangement: Transfer the seasoned carrots to the prepared baking sheet in a single layer with space between each piece so they don’t touch. Using a flat-bottomed glass or jar, gently press down on each carrot piece to smash them slightly, increasing surface area for crisping.
- Roast the carrots: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for 20 minutes. After this, remove the tray, carefully flip each smashed carrot to the other side for even crisping, and return to the oven for another 15-20 minutes until they develop a crispy, caramelized texture.
- Final touches: Remove the roasted carrots from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle with flake salt and additional parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure carrots are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Use a sturdy glass or jar for smashing the carrots gently without crushing them too much.
- For extra crispness, make sure the baking sheet is not overcrowded.
- Flake salt and additional parmesan cheese at the end enhance the flavor but are optional.
- These carrots can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
