Description
A simple and flavorful side dish featuring carrots roasted in garlic herb butter, perfect for quick weeknight dinners. The butter caramelizes the carrots’ natural sweetness while garlic and fresh herbs add savory depth.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds (680g) carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or thick rounds
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (thyme and parsley), chopped
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Peel the carrots and cut them into sticks or thick rounds, about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
- Melt the butter gently in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the minced garlic and fresh herbs. Let it infuse for a minute or two without letting the garlic brown.
- Place the cut carrots in a large mixing bowl or directly on a baking sheet. Pour the garlic herb butter over the carrots and toss thoroughly to coat evenly.
- Spread the carrots in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges caramelize and carrots are tender but slightly firm.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with additional salt and pepper to taste. If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the carrots and toss gently. Serve warm.
Notes
Use unsalted butter to control saltiness. Avoid burning garlic by melting butter gently and adding garlic off heat. Cut carrots evenly for uniform roasting. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure caramelization. Add lemon juice just before serving for brightness. Variations include adding red pepper flakes for heat, maple syrup for sweetness, or Parmesan for extra flavor. Vegan option: substitute butter with olive oil or plant-based butter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approxima
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 7
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 1
Keywords: garlic herb butter roasted carrots, roasted carrots, garlic carrots, easy side dish, weeknight dinner, vegetable side, buttery carrots