Crispy Parmesan Carrots are a delicious and healthy side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a crispy, cheesy coating. This easy recipe is perfect for any meal and adds a delightful crunch to your plate!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (about 450g) carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko works well for extra crunch)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making Crispy Parmesan Carrots takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Carrots

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare Carrots: Peel and cut the carrots into uniform sticks or rounds to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Coating

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the carrots and toss to coat evenly.

Step 3: Coat the Carrots

1. Coat with Mixture: Add the carrot sticks or rounds to the bowl with the cheese and breadcrumb mixture. Toss until all the carrots are evenly coated.

Step 4: Bake the Carrots

1. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the coating is golden brown and crispy. Flip the carrots halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm as a side dish to your favorite main courses!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Crispy Parmesan Carrots (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	150
Protein	5g
Fat	7g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	5g

Tips for Customization

• Add Spices: Experiment with different spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning for added flavor.
• Use Different Vegetables: This recipe works well with other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover crispy Parmesan carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Conclusion

Crispy Parmesan Carrots are a flavorful and healthy side dish that everyone will love. With their crunchy texture and cheesy flavor, they make a perfect addition to any meal!

FAQs

Can I prepare these carrots ahead of time?

You can prep the carrots and coating mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Coat and bake just before serving.

Can I freeze the coated carrots?

It’s best to bake the carrots first and then freeze them. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.