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Perfect Garlic Parmesan Roasted Rainbow Carrots Recipe

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These roasted rainbow carrots are caramelized to perfection with garlic and Parmesan, creating a stunning side dish that’s both simple and impressive. The secret is a higher oven temperature and proper pan spacing for deep caramelization without sogginess.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds rainbow carrots, scrubbed and trimmed (leave about ½ inch of green tops)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the rack in the middle and allow the oven to fully preheat for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Prep the carrots: Scrub them well under running water (no need to peel). Trim off the tops, leaving about ½ inch of the green stems. If carrots are more than 1 inch in diameter, halve or quarter them lengthwise so all pieces are roughly ½ inch thick.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrots, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to toss until each piece is well coated.
  4. Line a large baking sheet (half-sheet pan, 18×13 inches) with parchment paper. Spread the carrots in a single, even layer without crowding. Use a second pan if needed.
  5. Roast for 15 minutes without disturbing. The carrots should be starting to soften and brown on the bottoms.
  6. Remove the pan from the oven. In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil with the minced garlic. Drizzle this mixture over the carrots and toss gently with a spatula to distribute.
  7. Roast for another 10 minutes, until the carrots are tender when pierced with a fork and have deep golden-brown spots. Start checking at 8 minutes if carrots are thin.
  8. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the carrots. Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and starting to turn golden and crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley if using, and serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t crowd the pan—carrots need space to caramelize. Pat carrots dry after washing to prevent steaming. Add garlic halfway through to avoid burning. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best crispy texture. For dairy-free, substitute with 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast mixed with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted carrots, rainbow carrots, garlic parmesan carrots, easy side dish, holiday side dish, vegetable side dish, gluten-free, vegetarian

Find it online: https://milacook.com/perfect-garlic-parmesan-roasted-rainbow-carrots-recipe/