Oh, the simple joys of a humble carrot—transformed! Picture this: a chilly evening where the warmth of the oven fills the room, and the aroma of garlic and thyme dances in the air.
These roasted carrots, bathed in buttery goodness, are like a cozy sweater for your soul, bringing a touch of rustic charm to any meal. Remember last winter’s snowstorm? Yeah, these would have made it bearable.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Set this aside for later use.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diagonally sliced carrots with olive oil, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Add fresh thyme leaves, salt, and pepper, stirring until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Spread the seasoned carrot slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the oven for 15 minutes.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the minced garlic over the carrots. Stir to mix the garlic with the carrots, then return the baking sheet to the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the carrots are tender and the garlic is aromatic.
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into ½-inch diagonal rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
Nutritional Values
Calories: 300 kcal | Carbohydrates: 36 g | Sugars: 20 g | Fat: 16 g | Saturated Fat: 0 g | Protein: 4 g | Fiber: 8 g
FAQ
- Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme?
- Yes, you can substitute dried thyme for fresh thyme in this recipe. Use approximately one-third of the amount, so about 2/3 of a teaspoon of dried thyme, since dried herbs are generally more concentrated in flavor.
- What is the best way to ensure the carrots are evenly roasted?
- To ensure even roasting, spread the carrot slices in a single layer on the baking sheet and make sure they are not overlapping. This allows the heat to circulate around each piece for uniform cooking.
- Can I prepare the carrots in advance?
- Yes, you can slice and coat the carrots with olive oil and seasonings a few hours ahead of time. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator and roast them right before serving.
- How can I make this dish spicier?
- To add some heat, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the carrots before roasting them. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
- Is it possible to use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?
- Absolutely, baby carrots can be used instead of regular carrots. You may need to adjust the roasting time slightly, as baby carrots might cook faster due to their smaller size.
Tips
- Ensure even cooking by slicing the carrots uniformly into ½” rounds, which helps them roast evenly.
- For easy cleanup, line your baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper before spreading the carrots in a single layer.
- Add garlic halfway through the roasting process to prevent it from burning, ensuring it adds a fragrant touch without becoming bitter.
- Experiment with different fresh herbs or seasonings to tailor the flavor to your preference, keeping the base of the recipe while adding personal flair.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Mixing bowl