Get ready to transform ordinary carrots into a mouthwatering culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! These Orange Ginger Roasted Carrots are not just a side dish; they're a flavor explosion that combines the sweet warmth of orange, the zingy kick of fresh ginger, and the caramelized perfection of perfectly roasted vegetables. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply looking to elevate your dinner game, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Paleo, Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash and peel the carrots thoroughly. Cut them into uniform sticks approximately 3-4 inches long and about 1/2 inch thick to ensure even roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, freshly grated ginger, orange zest, and orange juice. Whisk the ingredients together to create a flavorful marinade.
- Add the carrot sticks to the bowl and toss gently, ensuring each carrot is evenly coated with the ginger-orange mixture.
- Spread the carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. This allows them to roast and caramelize properly.
- Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the carrots to enhance their natural flavors.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and caramelization.
- Remove from the oven when carrots are tender and have golden-brown edges. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the carrot sticks.
- Let the carrots rest for 2-3 minutes after removing from the oven to allow the flavors to settle and the exterior to crisp slightly.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with additional fresh orange zest or chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Carrots: Select firm, bright orange carrots with smooth skin for the best flavor and texture.
- Uniform Cutting: Cut carrots into similar-sized sticks to ensure even roasting and consistent caramelization.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give your carrots breathing room on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting.
- High Heat is Key: The 425°F temperature is crucial for achieving those delicious golden-brown edges and caramelized exterior.
- Flip Halfway: Turning the carrots midway through cooking ensures even browning and prevents burning.
- Fresh Ginger Matters: Use fresh grated ginger for the most vibrant and intense flavor – avoid pre-ground ginger if possible.
- Zest Before Juicing: Always zest your orange before cutting and juicing to maximize flavor extraction.
- Optional Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can add a beautiful pop of color and fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
