Ina Garten’s Perfect Barefoot Contessa Roasted Carrots Recipe

Barefoot Contessa roasted carrots transform ordinary vegetables into a culinary masterpiece that sparkles with rustic elegance.

Simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals when prepared with care and intention.

These vibrant orange roots hold incredible potential for deliciousness beyond standard side dishes.

Home cooks appreciate techniques that elevate humble produce into something spectacular.

Roasting concentrates natural sugars, creating caramelized edges that crackle with intense flavor and subtle sweetness.

Embrace the Sweet Allure of Roasted Carrots

• Unlock Effortless Flavor: These roasted carrots deliver maximum taste with minimal prep, transforming simple vegetables into a restaurant-worthy side dish in just 25 minutes.
• Customize Your Texture Adventure: By slicing carrots diagonally and roasting at high heat, you create perfectly caramelized edges with a soft, tender interior that promises a delightful mouthfeel.
• Herb-Infused Simplicity: The final toss with fresh dill or parsley adds a bright, aromatic finish that elevates the humble carrot from ordinary to extraordinary, making it a crowd-pleasing option for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.
• Foolproof Cooking Method: The one-pan roasting technique ensures even cooking, minimal cleanup, and guarantees delicious results every single time, making this recipe perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.

All You Need for a Carrot Roast Sensation

• Carrots: Sweet root vegetable with natural earthy flavor, best when fresh and firm with vibrant orange color.
• Dill, Parsley: Fresh herbs to add brightness and complementary green notes to the roasted carrots.

• Olive Oil: Rich, smooth fat that helps carrots roast evenly and develop golden color.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural sweetness of the carrots.

• Baking Paper: Non-stick surface for easy roasting and simple cleanup of the baking tray.

A Simple Roadmap to Carrot Roast Success

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Chop Carrots Like A Pro

Tackle those carrots with confidence! If they’re chunkier than usual, slice them lengthwise. Then create diagonal cuts about 1½ inches long, giving them a rustic, chef-worthy look.

Step 3: Flavor Explosion Prep

• Carrots
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Tumble everything together, making sure each carrot gets a luxurious coating of seasoning.

Step 4: Roast To Perfection

Spread those seasoned beauties onto the prepared baking sheet. They should relax in a single layer, not crowding each other. Pop them into the oven and let the magic happen for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Herb It Up

Once the carrots emerge golden and tender, sprinkle with fresh herbs. Choose between vibrant dill or classic parsley. Give a final taste test and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately while they’re still steaming and delicious.

Pro Tip: These roasted carrots are your ticket to vegetable heaven – crispy edges, tender center, and bursting with flavor!

Pro Secrets for the Perfect Roasted Carrot

• Slice Strategically: Cutting carrots diagonally and thick prevents them from shrinking and ensures even, tender roasting.
• Herb Harmony: Sprinkle fresh dill or parsley after roasting to maintain vibrant color and bright flavor.
• Space Matters: Give carrots breathing room on the baking sheet, allowing proper roasting instead of steaming.
• Tenderness Test: Pierce with a fork to check for soft interior and slightly crispy edges, indicating perfect doneness.
• Color Your Plate: Rainbow carrots add visual appeal and provide the same delicious sweetness as traditional orange varieties.

Freshness Fixes for Your Carrot Creation

• Freezer Storage: Seal cooled roasted carrots in heavy-duty freezer bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Label bags with date and contents. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring maximum flavor preservation and quick future meal prep.
• Glass Container Method: Transfer completely cooled carrots into glass containers with tight-fitting lids. Stack containers strategically in refrigerator, keeping them away from strong-smelling foods. Consume within 4-5 days for optimal taste and texture.
• Vacuum Sealing Technique: Use a vacuum sealer to remove all air, creating an airtight environment that extends carrot freshness. Pack carrots in single layers, preventing crushing. Store in refrigerator or freezer, maintaining nutrients and preventing oxidation for extended periods.

Daring Twists on Traditional Roasted Carrots

• Honey Glazed Carrot Delight: Drizzle honey over carrots before roasting for a sweet caramelized finish. Mix fresh thyme leaves into the olive oil for an aromatic herb undertone.
• Moroccan Spiced Roasted Carrots: Sprinkle cumin, paprika, and cinnamon onto carrots before roasting. Garnish with chopped fresh mint and a dollop of Greek yogurt after cooking.
• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots: Mince fresh garlic and grate parmesan cheese to sprinkle over carrots during the last 5 minutes of roasting. Finish with chopped parsley for a bright, savory profile.
• Balsamic Maple Carrots: Replace olive oil with a mixture of balsamic vinegar and maple syrup. Roast carrots until edges are crispy and caramelized. Scatter toasted pine nuts on top for added crunch and nutty flavor.

Final Thoughts on a Carrot Roast Journey

Barefoot Contessa’s roasted carrots elevate simple vegetables into a culinary masterpiece.

Her method transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary side dish with minimal effort.

Ina Garten’s approach highlights the natural sweetness of carrots through careful roasting.

Salt, pepper, and herbs create a harmonious flavor profile that delights dinner guests.

Willing to explore new vegetable recipes, you’ll find these roasted carrots a delectable addition to any meal – share this recipe, comment below, and spread the kitchen inspiration with fellow cooking enthusiasts.

Barefoot Contessa Roasted Carrots Recipe

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4.6 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Barefoot Contessa Roasted Carrots offer a simple yet elegant side dish with Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Fresh carrots caramelize beautifully when roasted with olive oil, herbs, and a touch of Mediterranean seasoning, creating a delightful accompaniment that elevates any meal you serve.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 12 carrots

Seasoning:

• 1¼ teaspoons kosher salt (or sea salt)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Oils and Herbs:

• 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (4 grams) fresh dill or flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C) / 400°F and position the rack in the middle. Arrange a large baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Evaluate carrot thickness: For thicker carrots, carefully slice them lengthwise to create uniform pieces. Trim the ends and cut diagonally into robust 4-centimeter (1½-inch) segments for even roasting.
3. Create flavor base: Transfer carrot pieces to a spacious mixing bowl. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil generously, then sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss thoroughly using tongs or a wooden spoon to guarantee complete, even coating.
4. Arrange for optimal roasting: Distribute carrots across the prepared baking tray in a single, uncrowded layer. This ensures each piece caramelizes and develops rich, golden edges without steaming.
5. Roast to perfection: Place tray in preheated oven and cook for 20 minutes. Expect carrots to transform into tender, slightly crisp pieces with beautiful caramelized surfaces.
6. Final touch and presentation: Remove hot carrots from oven. Immediately garnish with finely chopped fresh dill or parsley for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm as an elegant, vibrant side dish.

Notes

• Slice carrots diagonally and thick to maintain their robust texture during roasting, preventing unnecessary shrinkage.
• Embrace rainbow carrot varieties for a visually stunning presentation that adds vibrant colors to your dish.
• Space carrots generously on the baking tray, ensuring they roast perfectly without steaming each other.
• Verify doneness by gently piercing with a fork, seeking a tender interior with delightfully crisp edges.
• Sprinkle fresh herbs like dill or parsley after roasting to preserve their bright, aromatic qualities.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 100
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg