Tangy Lemon Garlic Roasted Carrots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tangy Lemon Garlic Roasted Carrots are a vibrant and flavorful side dish that perfectly balances sweetness, acidity, and a touch of savory garlic. Roasting brings out the natural sugars in the carrots while the lemon and garlic add a zesty kick. These carrots are easy to prepare, visually appealing, and a great accompaniment to any main dish—from roasted chicken to grilled fish.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

carrots (peeled and cut into sticks or kept whole if thin)olive oilfresh garlic (minced)lemon juicelemon zestfresh parsley (chopped)saltblack pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Spread the carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized on the edges.

Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with lemon zest.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesRoasting time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Toss in a teaspoon of honey before roasting for extra sweetness.

Sprinkle with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy finish.

Use rainbow carrots for a more colorful presentation.

Add thyme or rosemary for an herby twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.Avoid freezing as the texture of the carrots may change.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots?

Yes, baby carrots work well—just adjust the roasting time slightly as they may cook faster.

Do I have to peel the carrots?

Peeling is optional, especially if the carrots are young and tender. Just scrub them well.

Can I roast them ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast them a few hours in advance and reheat before serving.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Are these carrots vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan.

How do I prevent the carrots from burning?

Ensure they’re evenly spaced on the baking sheet and not overcrowded. Flip them halfway through roasting.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely—try roasting with parsnips, sweet potatoes, or red onions for variety.

Do I need to cover them while roasting?

No, roasting uncovered helps them caramelize and get crispy edges.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this without garlic?

Yes, you can skip the garlic or substitute with garlic powder for a milder flavor.

Conclusion

Tangy Lemon Garlic Roasted Carrots are a simple yet flavorful way to elevate your veggie game. With their bright citrus notes and rich roasted undertones, these carrots make a perfect side dish for almost any meal. They’re quick to prep, easy to customize, and always a hit on the dinner table.

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