Tangy Lemon Garlic Roasted Carrots Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tangy Lemon Garlic Roasted Carrots are a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with a wide variety of meals. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by a zesty lemon and garlic marinade, creating a vibrant and aromatic dish. Roasting the carrots caramelizes their sugars, making them tender and full of flavor, while the lemon adds a refreshing tang. This dish is quick, easy, and a great way to add some brightness to your dinner plate.

Ingredients

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

this Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Carrots: Peel and cut the carrots into 1-inch pieces, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
3. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Toss the Carrots: Place the carrot pieces on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle the marinade over them. Toss the carrots to ensure they are evenly coated.
5. Roast the Carrots: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized, stirring once halfway through cooking.
6. Serve: Remove the carrots from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Roasting time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Add Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill can be added to the marinade for additional herbaceous flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat.
• Glazed Carrots: For a sweeter twist, increase the amount of honey or maple syrup in the marinade.
• Carrot Ribbons: Use a vegetable peeler to create long carrot ribbons for a more elegant presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm them in the microwave or place them back in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?
Yes, baby carrots can be used in this recipe. Simply cut them into halves or quarters, depending on their size.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and roast the carrots ahead of time, then store them in the fridge. Just reheat them before serving.

Can I make this dish without honey or maple syrup?
Yes, you can omit the honey or maple syrup. The dish will still be flavorful with the tangy lemon and garlic.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use other root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or beets in place of carrots. Adjust the cooking time if needed.

Conclusion

Tangy Lemon Garlic Roasted Carrots are a simple and flavorful side dish that adds a burst of brightness to any meal. The combination of lemon, garlic, and the natural sweetness of roasted carrots is a winning flavor profile that everyone will enjoy. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a side for special occasions!

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