Description
Smashed carrots are roasted until golden and crispy on the edges with tender centers, then topped with Parmesan and spices for a savory, cheesy side dish that elevates everyday carrots.
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 to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Boil the carrot rounds in salted water for 8-10 minutes until fork tender. Drain well.
- Place the carrots on the prepared baking sheet and gently smash each round with the bottom of a glass or measuring cup.
- Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Roast for 18-22 minutes, until golden brown and crispy around the edges.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Swap Parmesan for feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Add honey or maple syrup before roasting for a sweet-savory balance.
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a bolder flavor.
- Try herbs or spices like Italian seasoning, chili flakes, or curry powder.
- Make it dairy-free with plant-based cheese or omit cheese altogether.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 95 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 3 mg
