Roasted Carrots and Brussels Sprouts

When you’re looking for a side dish that’s as simple as it is delicious, Roasted Carrots and Brussels Sprouts is where it’s at. Picture this: tender, caramelized carrots paired with crispy, golden Brussels sprouts—both tossed in olive oil, garlic, and a hint of seasoning. The roasting process brings out their natural sweetness and savory flavors, making this side dish so irresistible that it might just steal the spotlight from the main course. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday spread, it’s the kind of dish that everyone can’t help but rave about. Get ready for a crunchy, flavorful bite in every forkful—trust me, you’re going to love this!

Why You’ll Love Roasted Carrots and Brussels Sprouts

Here’s why Roasted Carrots and Brussels Sprouts will become your go-to side:

• Naturally Sweet and Savory: Roasting the carrots and Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness while enhancing their savory notes. It’s a winning combination that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes. No complicated steps, just simple, straightforward cooking.
• Versatile: This dish pairs perfectly with almost anything—from roasted meats to pasta, or even a cozy grain bowl. It’s the kind of side that works for any meal.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this dish is not only delicious but also good for you. Perfect for a wholesome meal!
• Crispy and Tender: The Brussels sprouts get wonderfully crispy on the edges, while the carrots become soft and tender in the middle. It’s the ultimate balance of textures.

Ingredients

Let’s gather the essentials for this easy, flavorful side dish:

• Carrots: Fresh, firm carrots are key. They’ll roast up beautifully with just a little oil and seasoning.
• Brussels Sprouts: Trimmed and halved, these little gems are packed with flavor and get wonderfully crispy when roasted.
• Olive Oil: A generous drizzle helps everything caramelize nicely, giving a rich flavor and a touch of crispiness.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must to infuse the veggies with an aromatic, savory depth.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that really bring out the flavors.
• Optional Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley are perfect for adding an herbal touch.
• Honey (Optional): A drizzle of honey adds a bit of sweetness to balance out the savory notes. It’s an optional step, but highly recommended for an extra flavor boost.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Ready to get roasting? Here’s how to make Roasted Carrots and Brussels Sprouts:

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures that the veggies get crispy and golden without drying out.

2. Prep the Veggies

Peel the carrots and cut them into evenly-sized sticks or rounds. Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts, remove any outer leaves, and slice them in half. This helps them cook evenly and get those crispy edges.

3. Toss with Oil and Seasonings

In a large bowl, toss the carrots and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Make sure everything is coated evenly, so every bite is full of flavor. If you’re using honey, drizzle it over the veggies now.

4. Spread on a Baking Sheet

Arrange the seasoned veggies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded so they can roast properly and get that perfect crispy texture.

5. Roast to Perfection

Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, tossing once halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the Brussels sprouts are golden and crispy on the edges, and the carrots are tender and lightly caramelized.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once roasted to perfection, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the crispy, tender goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

How to Serve Roasted Carrots and Brussels Sprouts

These roasted veggies are the perfect addition to any meal! Here are a few ideas for pairing:

• With Roasted Chicken: The caramelized flavor of the veggies complements roasted chicken beautifully.
• On a Grain Bowl: Add these veggies to a base of quinoa, farro, or rice for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
• As a Side to Pasta: Roasted vegetables are a great pairing with pasta dishes, adding a little crunch and flavor contrast to creamy sauces.
• With Beef or Pork: The earthy flavor of the Brussels sprouts and sweetness of the carrots make them the perfect side for roasted or grilled meats.

Additional Tips

• Even Sizing: Try to cut your carrots and Brussels sprouts into similar sizes so they cook at the same rate. This ensures that everything is perfectly tender and crispy.
• Add a Citrus Twist: For a zesty finish, squeeze a little lemon juice over the veggies right before serving.
• Make It a Meal: Add some roasted chickpeas or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a heartier, vegetarian main dish.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before roasting to add a spicy kick.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can prep the veggies the night before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Roast them fresh the next day for best results.

Q2: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
A2: Fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal, but if frozen is all you have, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before roasting.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or a skillet to restore some of their crispy texture.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A4: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even cauliflower would work beautifully with this recipe. Just make sure to cut them into similarly-sized pieces for even roasting.

Q5: How do I make this dish even more flavorful?
A5: Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like smoked paprika, balsamic vinegar, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese after roasting.

Conclusion

Roasted Carrots and Brussels Sprouts are the perfect side dish for any occasion. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and offer the perfect balance of crispy and tender textures. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty roast or making them the star of a vegetarian meal, these veggies are bound to impress. So next time you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dish, give this recipe a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again!

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