Roasted Asparagus & Carrots is a simple yet elegant side dish that celebrates the natural sweetness and flavor of fresh vegetables. The combination of tender asparagus and slightly caramelized carrots makes this recipe a versatile accompaniment for any meal. Tossed in olive oil and seasoned with garlic and thyme, the vegetables roast to golden perfection, delivering a delightful blend of textures and earthy flavors. Whether paired with roasted meats, fish, or a vegetarian main, this dish is a healthy and visually appealing addition to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this dish is both healthy and flavorful, packed with nutrients and seasoned to perfection. It's quick and easy to prepare, with a bake time of just 20-25 minutes. Plus, it's a versatile side dish that complements a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 bunch of asparagus, woody ends trimmed
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4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Directions
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Preheat the Oven: I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
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Prepare the Vegetables: I place the trimmed asparagus and carrot sticks on the prepared baking sheet. Then, I drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables, sprinkle with minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper, and toss until they're evenly coated.
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Roast the Vegetables: I spread the vegetables out in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking. Then, I roast them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until they're tender and lightly browned.
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Serve and Enjoy: I transfer the roasted vegetables to a serving platter and serve them hot as a side dish, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 4 people. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is 20-25 minutes, making the total time approximately 30-35 minutes.
Variations
I like to customize this dish by adding my favorite spices, such as smoked paprika or chili flakes, for a unique twist. Sometimes, I also sprinkle chopped almonds or drizzle balsamic glaze over the roasted vegetables for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigeration: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: To retain crispness, I reheat the vegetables in the oven at 375°F (190°C) or in a skillet over medium heat.
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Freezing: I don't recommend freezing this dish, as the texture of roasted asparagus may change.
FAQs
How can I ensure even cooking of the vegetables?
I slice the carrots into similar-sized sticks to ensure they cook evenly with the asparagus.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme?
Absolutely! I sometimes use fresh thyme or rosemary for a more vibrant flavor.
Is it necessary to peel the carrots?
I prefer to peel the carrots for a smoother texture, but it's not strictly necessary if they're thoroughly washed.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare the vegetables and seasoning ahead of time and roast them just before serving.
What main dishes pair well with this side?
I find that this dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or vegetarian mains like quinoa or lentil dishes.
Conclusion
Roasted Asparagus & Carrots is a healthy, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. It’s a simple yet delicious way to add color and nutrients to your plate, making it a must-try recipe for vegetable lovers!
Roasted Asparagus & Carrots
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Roasted Asparagus & Carrots is a healthy, easy-to-make vegetable side dish seasoned with garlic and thyme. This oven-roasted recipe brings out the natural sweetness of carrots and the earthy flavor of asparagus, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Keywords: roasted asparagus and carrots, healthy side dish, oven roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch of asparagus, woody ends trimmed
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
- Place trimmed asparagus and carrot sticks on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Spread vegetables in a single layer and roast for 20–25 minutes, tossing halfway through.
- Transfer to a platter, optionally garnish with Parmesan, and serve hot.
Notes
- Slice carrots evenly to match asparagus cooking time.
- Fresh thyme or rosemary can be substituted for dried thyme.
- Add balsamic glaze or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
- Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes.
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