Smashed Carrots with Parmesan and Smoked Paprika Recipe

Introduction

Smashed carrots offer a delightful twist on a classic vegetable side dish. By boiling and gently flattening the carrots before roasting, this recipe creates crispy edges and tender centers with rich, caramelized flavor. It’s a simple, flavorful way to enjoy carrots that’s sure to impress at any meal.

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

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Boil the carrot rounds in salted water for 10–12 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain and allow them to cool slightly.
3. Step 3: Arrange the carrots on the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten each one using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the olive oil over the carrots, then season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
5. Step 5: Roast the carrots in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking, until they are crisp and golden brown.
6. Step 6: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve the carrots hot for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Use a sturdy glass or measuring cup to gently flatten the carrots without breaking them apart.
• For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes before serving.
• Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier taste.
• Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for a different aromatic touch.

Storage

Store any leftover smashed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or in a skillet to maintain their crisp edges. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Why do I need to smash the carrots?

Smashing the carrots increases their surface area, allowing them to roast evenly and develop crispy, caramelized edges. This technique enhances both texture and flavor by exposing more of the carrot’s natural sugars to direct heat.

Can I use baby carrots instead?

Baby carrots can be used, but they may be more difficult to flatten evenly. Using thick carrot rounds yields the best texture and flavor for this recipe.

Smashed Carrots with Parmesan and Smoked Paprika Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 91 reviews

• Author: Victor
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Crispy Smashed Carrots are a delicious and unique twist on traditional roasted carrots. After boiling to tender perfection, each carrot round is gently smashed to increase surface area, enhancing caramelization and creating crispy edges while maintaining a soft center. Seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese, this recipe combines savory, smoky, and nutty flavors with a delightful textural contrast. Perfect as a side dish, these roasted smashed carrots are simple to prepare and bursting with flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Carrots

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds

Seasonings

• 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

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Boil Carrots: Place the peeled and thickly sliced carrot rounds into a pot of salted boiling water. Cook for 10–12 minutes until they are fork-tender but still hold their shape. Drain and allow them to cool slightly.
3. Smash Carrots: Arrange the boiled carrots on the prepared baking sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to gently flatten each carrot round. This smashing increases the surface area for crisping and caramelization.
4. Season and Oil: Drizzle the smashed carrots evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the carrots. Finally, distribute the grated Parmesan cheese on top of each piece for added flavor and browning.
5. Roast Carrots: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for 20–25 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness. The carrots should become golden brown and have crispy edges.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the roasted carrots from the oven. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve hot to enjoy the best texture and taste.

Notes

• Be gentle when smashing the carrots to avoid breaking them apart completely.
• Use thick carrot rounds for sturdier pieces that hold shape well.
• Adjust seasoning to taste; smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky heat, but it can be omitted or swapped for regular paprika if preferred.
• Parmesan cheese enhances browning and adds umami, but it can be omitted for a dairy-free option.
• Serve immediately for optimal crispiness as they soften when allowed to sit.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: smashed carrots, roasted carrots, side dish, crispy carrots, garlic paprika carrots, easy vegetable recipe