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Smashed Roasted Carrots with Parmesan and Paprika Recipe

4.5 from 65 reviews

This Smashed Carrots recipe offers a delicious and simple way to enjoy carrots with a delightful roasted crispness and rich flavor from Parmesan, garlic, and smoked paprika. Perfect as a savory side dish, these carrots are first boiled until tender, gently smashed for a rustic texture, seasoned, and roasted to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Carrots

  • 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds

Seasonings & Toppings

  • 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

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Boil Carrots: Boil the carrot rounds in salted water for 10 to 12 minutes until they become fork-tender. Drain the carrots and allow them to cool slightly to make handling easier.
  3. Smash Carrots: Arrange the boiled carrots on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently flatten each carrot round to create a smashed effect.
  4. Season: Drizzle the smashed carrots evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over them, then distribute the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
  5. Roast: Roast the carrots in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispness and a golden-brown finish.
  6. Serve: Garnish the roasted smashed carrots with freshly chopped parsley and serve them hot to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Boiling the carrots before roasting ensures they are tender on the inside while crispy outside after roasting.
  • Use a sturdy glass or measuring cup base to gently smash carrots without breaking them apart.
  • Adjust the seasoning according to your taste; smoked paprika adds a nice smoky depth but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • Parmesan cheese adds savory richness; substitute with a vegan cheese if needed for a dairy-free version.
  • For extra crispiness, make sure the carrots are spaced out on the baking sheet without overlapping.

Keywords: smashed carrots, roasted carrots, Parmesan carrots, simple side dish, easy vegetable recipe, healthy carrot recipe