Roasted Carrots with Shallots and Thyme Recipe
Introduction
Roasted carrots are a simple yet delightful side dish, perfect for adding a touch of sweetness and warmth to your Thanksgiving table. This recipe combines tender carrots with shallots and fresh thyme for a comforting, flavorful experience.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds carrots, cleaned
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 8 medium shallots
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped fine
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil to drizzle over
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the carrots by halving them cross-wise and cutting length-wise to create even-sized pieces that are larger than a matchstick and bigger than bite-sized.
- Step 2: Peel all the shallots. Dice two shallots and halve the remaining six.
- Step 3: Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. In a bowl, combine the carrots, shallots, melted butter, thyme, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil, tossing to coat evenly.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a foil- or parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it into a single layer.
- Step 5: Cover the baking sheet tightly with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Step 6: Remove the foil and continue roasting, stirring twice, until the carrots are well browned and tender, about 30 to 35 minutes more.
- Step 7: Serve the roasted carrots hot and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For deeper flavor, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup before roasting to enhance the natural sweetness of the carrots.
- Try swapping thyme for rosemary for a slightly different herbal note.
- Use baby carrots whole if you prefer a more delicate presentation.
Storage
Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain their texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I roast carrots without foil covering?
Yes, but covering with foil initially helps steam the carrots, making them tender. Roasting uncovered from the start may result in drier, less tender carrots.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep and toss the vegetables in the coating mixture ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours before roasting. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if roasting straight from the fridge.
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Roasted Carrots with Shallots and Thyme Recipe
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Roasted Carrots recipe is a perfect Thanksgiving favorite, featuring tender carrots roasted with butter, shallots, fresh thyme, and a hint of lemon juice for bright flavor. The carrots are baked until golden and caramelized, creating a delightful side dish that complements any holiday meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds carrots, cleaned
- 8 medium shallots
Seasonings and Others
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped fine
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, to drizzle over
Instructions
- Prepare Carrots: Halve the carrots crosswise and then cut them lengthwise to create even-sized pieces that are larger than matchsticks but still bite-sized for uniform roasting.
- Prepare Shallots: Peel all the shallots. Dice two shallots finely and halve the remaining shallots, setting them aside.
- Preheat Oven and Toss Ingredients: Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine the prepared carrots, diced and halved shallots, melted butter, fresh thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything well to coat evenly.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Transfer the tossed carrots and shallots onto a foil- or parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Roast Covered: Cover the baking sheet tightly with foil and roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This helps soften the carrots and shallots.
- Continue Roasting Uncovered: Remove the foil and roast the vegetables uncovered for an additional 30-35 minutes, stirring twice during this period, until the carrots are tender and nicely browned.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and drizzle with a little olive oil before serving hot as a delicious, caramelized side dish.
Notes
- Use carrots that are similarly sized for even cooking.
- Foil or parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- Adjust cooking times as needed depending on carrot thickness and oven variations.
- Adding lemon juice brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness of roasted carrots.
- This dish pairs well with turkey, roasted meats, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Roasted carrots, Thanksgiving side, roasted shallots, holiday vegetables, baked carrots, butter roasted carrots, thyme carrots
