Name: Crispy Smashed Carrots: 5 Reasons You'll Love Them
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Carrots (Use fresh, firm carrots.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Or substitute with avocado oil.); 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (For a vegan option, use plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Substitute with fresh minced garlic for stronger flavor.); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Regular paprika can be used if needed.); to taste Salt (Adjust to taste.); to taste Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped, for garnish.)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Smashed Carrots are a delightful, crispy side dish that combines garlic and smoked paprika for a flavor explosion. These vibrant vegetables not only bring color to your plate but also pack a nutritional punch. Perfect for any meal, Smashed Carrots are versatile, easy to prepare, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a simple weeknight side, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Smashed Carrots

There are many reasons to love this Smashed Carrots recipe! First, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, the combination of garlic and smoked paprika creates a mouthwatering flavor that pairs well with any main dish. Additionally, this recipe allows for variations like mashed carrots or even pureed carrots for a different texture. The dish is also a great way to introduce vegetables to children, especially when made into a creamy smashed carrots dish. Lastly, it’s a healthy smashed carrots side dish that fits perfectly into a vegetarian diet.

Ingredients for Smashed Carrots

Gather these items:

1 pound Carrots (Use fresh, firm carrots.)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Or substitute with avocado oil.)
1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (For a vegan option, use plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Substitute with fresh minced garlic for stronger flavor.)
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Regular paprika can be used if needed.)
to taste Salt (Adjust to taste.)
to taste Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.)
2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped, for garnish.)

How to Make Smashed Carrots Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cut fresh carrots into rounds and boil them in salted water for 10–12 minutes until fork-tender.
Step 3: Drain the carrots and let them cool slightly. Smash each carrot round until about half their original thickness.
Step 4: Arrange smashed carrots on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
Step 6: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Smashed Carrots

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh, firm carrots for the best texture.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this ensures even cooking and crispiness.
For a unique flavor, experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary.

Best Ways to Serve Smashed Carrots

These Smashed Carrots make an excellent side dish for roasted meats, grilled fish, or vegetarian options like quinoa patties. They can also be paired with a fresh salad for a wholesome meal. Consider serving them alongside mashed carrots or blended carrots for a nice variety.

How to Store and Reheat Smashed Carrots

To store, let the Smashed Carrots cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method will help retain their crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smashed Carrots

What are Smashed Carrots?

Smashed Carrots are a delicious side dish made from boiled carrot rounds that are smashed and roasted until crispy. They are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable.

Why use Smashed Carrots in recipes?

Smashed Carrots add texture and flavor to any meal. They can be served as a side dish or incorporated into various recipes, such as salads or bowls, providing a healthy option rich in vitamins and minerals. For more ideas, check out creamy tuscan scallops or Greek chicken bowls.

Can I make Smashed Carrots for baby food?

Yes! You can easily adjust the texture of Smashed Carrots for baby food by pureeing or blending them after cooking. This provides a nutritious option for little ones, packed with flavor and essential nutrients.

Variations of Smashed Carrots You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix it up, try these variations:

For a creamy smashed carrots dish, add a splash of cream or coconut milk after smashing.
Incorporate different spices or herbs, like cumin or dill, for a unique flavor profile.
Try ground carrots for a different presentation or use them in salads.

For more delicious recipes, consider trying baked lemon rosemary chicken or vegetable zucchini fritters.