Description

Crispy Smashed Carrots are a deliciously creative appetizer or side dish that combines tender boiled carrots with a crispy roasted finish. Enhanced with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese, this recipe offers a delightful contrast of textures and rich flavors, making it a nutritious and flavorful way to enjoy carrots.

Ingredients

Scale

Carrots

1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds

Seasonings & Oil

1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste

Toppings & Garnish

2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
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 ease cleanup.
Boil Carrots: Boil the carrot rounds in salted water for 10 to 12 minutes or until they are just fork-tender. Drain well and allow them to cool slightly for easier handling.
Smash Carrots: Place the cooked carrots on the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten each piece to about half its thickness using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, ensuring even thickness for uniform roasting.
Season and Oil: Drizzle the smashed carrots generously with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the carrots for a balanced savory flavor.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the seasoned carrots to create a golden, crispy crust during roasting.
Roast Carrots: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they achieve a crisp, golden-brown exterior and the cheese is melted and browned.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, herbaceous touch, and serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

Do not overboil the carrots; they should be tender yet firm enough to smash without crumbling.
Use a flat-bottomed object such as a glass or measuring cup for uniform smashing.
To keep a crispy texture when reheating, warm the carrots in the oven rather than using a microwave.
For a vegan option, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.
These carrots pair well with a variety of main dishes including roasted meats, fish, or vegetarian grain bowls.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Boiling and Roasting
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 4 oz)
Calories: 120 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 220 mg
Fat: 6 g
Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 13 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 3 mg

Keywords: smashed carrots, roasted carrots, appetizer, healthy side dish, vegetarian, carrot recipe, crispy carrots, savory carrots, Parmesan carrots