Roasted Asparagus & Carrots: A Simple, Delicious Side Dish

Roasted Asparagus & Carrots is a simple yet elegant side dish that elevates any meal. Forget boring steamed vegetables! This recipe transforms humble asparagus and carrots into a vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying accompaniment. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and the delicate, slightly nutty flavor of the asparagus. A simple toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper is all it takes to create a dish that’s both healthy and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re serving a weeknight Main dish or a special occasion feast, roasted asparagus and carrots are sure to be a hit. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking with different herbs, spices, and even a touch of sweetness. Get ready to experience the joy of perfectly roasted vegetables – a true testament to the magic of simple cooking.

Roasted Asparagus & Carrots with Garlic and Herbs

A simple and delicious side dish of roasted asparagus and carrots, seasoned with garlic, herbs, and a touch of olive oil. Perfect as a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Vegetable Peeler

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound Asparagus trimmed
• 1 pound Carrots peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice freshly squeezed

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Wash and trim the asparagus. Peel and chop the carrots into 1-inch pieces.
• In a large bowl, toss asparagus and carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
• Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly browned, flipping halfway through.
• Remove from oven and drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze after roasting. Other herbs like rosemary or parsley can be substituted for thyme.

Keyword asparagus, carrots, easy recipe, healthy recipe, Main dish side, roasted vegetables, side dish recipe, vegetarian

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Asparagus & Carrots Recipe

This Roasted Asparagus & Carrots recipe isn’t just another vegetable side dish; it’s a culinary experience that will become a staple in your kitchen. Here’s why you’ll fall in love:

• Simplicity: The recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatility: It easily adapts to your taste and dietary needs. Add herbs, spices, or even a squeeze of lemon for a completely different flavor profile. It’s equally delicious alongside grilled chicken, roasted fish, or a hearty vegetarian meal.
• Health Benefits: Asparagus and carrots are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making this a healthy and nutritious addition to any diet. They’re low in calories and high in fiber, contributing to a balanced meal.
• Flavor Explosion: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and the subtle nuttiness of the asparagus, resulting in a delightful flavor combination. The slight charring adds depth and complexity.
• Texture Perfection: The roasting process creates a tender-crisp texture in both the asparagus and carrots – not mushy, not crunchy, but perfectly in between. It’s the ideal balance of texture and flavor that you’ll crave.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the roasted asparagus and carrots make for a stunning visual presentation on any plate, instantly elevating your Main dish table.
• Make-Ahead Potential: You can easily roast these vegetables ahead of time and reheat them, making this a perfect choice for meal prepping.

Why You Should Try This Roasted Asparagus & Carrots Recipe

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Roasted Asparagus & Carrots recipe offers a plethora of reasons to give it a try:

• Quick & Easy Cleanup: Minimal dishes to wash, saving you precious time and energy after a busy day.
• Budget-Friendly: Asparagus and carrots are relatively inexpensive, making this a cost-effective side dish option.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this simple yet flavorful vegetable dish. It’s a great way to introduce more vegetables into picky eaters’ diets.
• Seasonal Adaptability: Asparagus and carrots are available throughout the year, making this recipe perfect for any time of year. Seasonal variations of herbs will enhance this dish even more.
• Great for Meal Prepping: Prepare a large batch on the weekend and use it as a healthy side dish throughout the week.
• Dietary Flexibility: Easily adaptable for various dietary restrictions. It is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and can be customized to be dairy-free if needed.
• Improves Your Cooking Skills: Mastering this simple recipe will build confidence in the kitchen and inspire you to experiment with other roasted vegetables.

Ingredients & Utensils for Roasted Asparagus & Carrots

This section details the ingredients and utensils you’ll need for perfectly roasted asparagus and carrots. High-quality ingredients are key to achieving the best flavor and texture. We’ll also explore substitutions for a more personalized experience.

Detailed Ingredient List:

• 1 pound asparagus: Look for spears that are firm and bright green, with tightly closed tips. Avoid asparagus that looks wilted or has woody stems.
  Keyword: Fresh Asparagus
• 1 pound carrots: Choose carrots that are firm and brightly colored, with smooth skins. Avoid carrots that are soft or have blemishes. Peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces.
  Keywords: Fresh Carrots, Chopped Carrots
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
  Keyword: Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon salt: Use kosher salt or sea salt for optimal flavor.
  Keyword: Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always best.
  Keyword: Black Pepper
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth to the flavor.
  Keyword: Garlic Powder
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: A subtle onion flavor complements the carrots and asparagus.
  Keyword: Onion Powder
• Optional: Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary): Adds a fresh, aromatic touch. About 1-2 tablespoons, roughly chopped.
  Keywords: Fresh Herbs, Thyme, Rosemary

Recommended Utensils:

• Large bowl: For tossing the vegetables with the olive oil and seasonings.
  Keyword: Mixing Bowl
• Baking sheet: A rimmed baking sheet is ideal to prevent spills.
  Keyword: Baking Sheet
• Vegetable peeler: For peeling the carrots.
  Keyword: Vegetable Peeler
• Knife: A sharp knife for trimming the asparagus and chopping the carrots.
  Keyword: Chef’s Knife
• Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate measurements of the ingredients.
  Keyword: Measuring Tools
• Tongs: For flipping the vegetables halfway through roasting.
  Keyword: Kitchen Tongs

Detailed Recipe Steps for Roasted Asparagus & Carrots

This detailed step-by-step guide will ensure perfectly roasted asparagus and carrots every time.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for even cooking. **Make sure your oven is properly preheated before adding the vegetables.**
2. Prepare the vegetables: Trim the woody ends of the asparagus. Peel the carrots and chop them into 1-inch pieces. **Using a sharp knife ensures clean cuts and prevents bruising.**
3. Toss with olive oil and seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the prepared asparagus and carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, fresh herbs). **Toss gently to coat the vegetables evenly.** Over-tossing can bruise the vegetables.
4. Spread on a baking sheet: Arrange the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. **Do not overcrowd the pan; this will result in steaming rather than roasting.** If necessary, use two baking sheets.
5. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly browned. **Flip the vegetables halfway through** using tongs to ensure even browning and cooking. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the vegetables and your oven.
6. Check for doneness: The asparagus should be tender but still slightly firm, with some slight charring. The carrots should be tender but not mushy. **Use a fork to test for doneness.**
7. Serve immediately: Enjoy your perfectly roasted asparagus and carrots as a delicious side dish.

Tips & Variations for Roasted Asparagus & Carrots

Experiment with different flavors and techniques to make this Roasted Asparagus & Carrots recipe your own!

• Herb Variations: Try different herbs such as dill, parsley, oregano, or chives for a unique flavor. Experiment with combinations of herbs to create your signature blend.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can also add a kick.
• Sweet & Savory: Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors. A sprinkle of balsamic glaze adds a delicious tang after roasting.
• Lemon Zest: The bright citrus notes of lemon zest beautifully complement the earthy vegetables.
• Roasted with Other Vegetables: Add other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, or zucchini for a more substantial side dish. Adjust roasting time accordingly.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Overcrowding will cause the vegetables to steam instead of roast. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked asparagus will be mushy, while overcooked carrots will lose their vibrant color and sweetness. Use a fork to check for tenderness; they should be tender-crisp.

Nutritional Values & Health Benefits of Roasted Asparagus & Carrots

This Roasted Asparagus & Carrots recipe is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly good for you. Both asparagus and carrots are nutritional powerhouses.

Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 1 pound asparagus and 1 pound carrots, serving size 4):

(Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Use a nutrition calculator for more precise data.)

• Calories: Approximately 150-200
• Protein: Approximately 4-6 grams
• Fat: Approximately 8-12 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
• Fiber: Approximately 4-6 grams

Benefits of Asparagus:

• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, and folate, as well as potassium and fiber.
• Antioxidant Properties: It contains various antioxidants that help protect against cell damage.
• Supports Digestive Health: The fiber content promotes healthy digestion.

Benefits of Carrots:

• Excellent Source of Beta-Carotene: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, essential for vision, immune function, and cell growth.
• High in Fiber: Contributes to digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Provides protection against free radical damage.

FAQs

Conclusion

This Roasted Asparagus & Carrots recipe is a simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows for endless customization, making it a great option for both seasoned cooks and beginners. The vibrant colors and tender-crisp texture make it a beautiful and satisfying addition to any meal. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of perfectly roasted asparagus and carrots! Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and feedback in the comments below. And be sure to check out our other delicious recipes on our blog: For a pasta lover try our Tortellini with Cream and Spinach with Shrimp or perhaps a festive treat, Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread for your next holiday gathering. Happy cooking!

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