**Savory and Sweet Make-Ahead Baked Carrots: A Medley of Delectable Recipes for Every Occasion**
Carrots, the vibrant orange root vegetables, are culinary gems that offer a symphony of flavors and nutrients. This article presents a delightful collection of make-ahead baked carrot recipes that cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. From classic roasted carrots with a touch of herbs to tantalizing honey-glazed carrots, these recipes elevate the humble carrot into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you're preparing for a special occasion, a weeknight dinner, or simply seeking a healthy and flavorful side dish, these recipes will surely satisfy your cravings.
**1. Classic Roasted Carrots:**
This classic recipe showcases the natural sweetness of carrots, roasted to perfection with a blend of aromatic herbs and a hint of olive oil. The simplicity of this dish allows the flavors of the carrots to shine through, making it a timeless favorite.
**2. Honey-Glazed Carrots:**
A delightful twist on roasted carrots, this recipe introduces a sweet and sticky glaze made from honey, butter, and a touch of spices. The glaze caramelizes during baking, creating a delectable coating that perfectly complements the tender carrots.
**3. Maple-Dijon Carrots:**
For those who enjoy a tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile, this recipe combines maple syrup and Dijon mustard to create a vibrant glaze. The maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness, while the Dijon mustard provides a subtle sharpness that balances out the flavors.
**4. Balsamic-Roasted Carrots:**
This recipe gives carrots a sophisticated twist with a balsamic vinegar glaze. The balsamic vinegar adds a rich, slightly tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the roasted carrots. The glaze creates a glossy finish that adds visual appeal to the dish.
**5. Parmesan-Crusted Carrots:**
For a cheesy and flavorful variation, this recipe coats the carrots in a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, and herbs before baking. The Parmesan crust adds a golden-brown crunch to the tender carrots, making them an irresistible side dish or snack.
**6. Spiced Carrot Fries:**
This recipe transforms carrots into crispy and flavorful fries, perfect for dipping or snacking. The carrots are coated in a blend of spices, including paprika, cumin, and garlic powder, before being baked until golden brown. The result is a healthier alternative to traditional potato fries, with all the deliciousness.
**7. Carrot and Sweet Potato Medley:**
This colorful and nutritious recipe combines carrots and sweet potatoes, roasted together with a blend of herbs and spices. The medley of flavors and textures creates a delightful side dish that is both healthy and visually appealing.
**8. Carrot and Zucchini Gratin:**
For a creamy and comforting dish, this recipe combines carrots and zucchini in a cheesy gratin. The vegetables are layered with a rich sauce made from béchamel and cheese, then baked until golden brown and bubbly. The result is a decadent dish that is perfect for special occasions or a cozy weeknight dinner.
**9. Carrot Cake Muffins:**
This delightful recipe transforms carrots into a sweet and moist muffin, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat. The muffins are studded with grated carrots and flavored with warm spices, creating a delicious and wholesome snack or dessert.
ROASTED CARROTS
Get the most out of your root vegetables with Ina Garten's Roasted Carrots recipe from Barefoot Contessa on Food Network.
Provided by Ina Garten
Categories side-dish
Time 30m
Yield 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- If the carrots are thick, cut them in half lengthwise; if not, leave whole. Slice the carrots diagonally in 1 1/2-inch-thick slices. (The carrots will shrink while cooking so make the slices big.) Toss them in a bowl with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Transfer to a sheet pan in 1 layer and roast in the oven for 20 minutes, until browned and tender.
- Toss the carrots with minced dill or parsley, season to taste, and serve.
GLAZED CARROTS
Simple dish with tender carrots with a buttery glaze and a mild sweetness.
Provided by Tricia McTamaney
Categories Side Dish Vegetables Carrots Glazed Carrot Recipes
Time 25m
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Place carrots into a large saucepan, pour in enough water to reach depth of 1 inch, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer carrots until tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and transfer to a bowl.
- Melt butter in the same saucepan; stir brown sugar, salt, and white pepper into butter until brown sugar and salt have dissolved. Transfer carrots into brown sugar sauce; cook and stir until carrots are glazed with sauce, about 5 more minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 123.6 calories, Carbohydrate 17.6 g, Cholesterol 15.3 mg, Fat 6 g, Fiber 3.2 g, Protein 1.1 g, SaturatedFat 3.7 g, Sodium 193.8 mg, Sugar 12.1 g
MAKE-AHEAD BAKED CARROTS
I love cooked carrots and I love creamed veggies, so this is one of my favorites. Originally from Esther Shank's Mennonite cookbook, tweaked a bit by me.
Provided by puppitypup
Categories Vegetable
Time 1h
Yield 6 , 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- If not making ahead of time, preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Grease a 1 1/2 qt baking dish.
- Peel and slice carrots. Cover with salted water and bring to a boil, cook for 15 minutes or until tender. Drain and place in baking dish.
- Meanwhile, saute onion in butter over medium heat until translucent.
- Add flour to onions, stirring to incorporate. Then slowly add milk, stirring as you go. Add salt, sugar and dry mustard and stir again.
- Pour white sauce over carrots. Combine bread crumbs and melted butter, sprinkle over top of casserole.
- If making ahead, cover casserole and put in fridge until needed. Remove 1/2 hour before coooking and preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
MAKE AHEAD CITRUS CARROTS
A great make ahead vegetable dish that you can bring to a family gathering or potluck. Only needs reheating to serve. This dish is vegetarian but can be made vegan by substituting good quality vegan margarine for the butter.
Provided by yummyeats
Categories Vegetable
Time P1DT20m
Yield 10-12 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Cook carrots in boiling water until tender but still crisp (10 to 12 minutes).
- While carrots cook, combine other ingredients in a microwave bowl and microwave on high for one minute.
- Once carrots cook drain and place in a microwaveable casserole dish with lid.
- Pour marmalade mixture over carrots and stir until marmalade mixture coats the carrots.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight (8-24 hours).
- Before reheating, stir.
- Microwave on high for 4-5 minutes stirring every few minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 143.8, Fat 4.7, SaturatedFat 2.9, Cholesterol 12.2, Sodium 231.1, Carbohydrate 26.2, Fiber 1.8, Sugar 21.9, Protein 0.8
ROASTED CARROTS
This dish is inspired by a roasted carrot antipasto I recently sampled at Oliveto Cafe in Oakland, Calif. The roasted carrots were tossed with lots of parsley and thyme, and I loved the way those bitter herbs offset the sweetness of the carrots.
Provided by Martha Rose Shulman
Categories easy, side dish
Time 1h
Yield Serves six
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Oil a sheet pan or a baking dish large enough to fit all of the carrots in a single layer. Place the carrots in a large bowl, and toss with the olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme and oregano.
- Spread in an even layer in the prepared pan or baking dish. Cover with foil, and place in the oven for 30 minutes. Uncover, and if the carrots are not yet tender, turn the heat down to 375 degrees and return to the oven for 10 to 15 more minutes until tender. Add the parsley, stir gently, and taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot, warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 124, UnsaturatedFat 6 grams, Carbohydrate 15 grams, Fat 7 grams, Fiber 4 grams, Protein 2 grams, SaturatedFat 1 gram, Sodium 373 milligrams, Sugar 7 grams
Tips:
- Select the Right Carrots: Choose fresh, firm, and medium-sized carrots for the best results.
- Prepare Carrots Evenly: Cut the carrots into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Use Good Quality Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds flavor and richness to the dish.
- Season Well: Don't be shy with the seasonings. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme are essential.
- Roast at High Temperature: High heat caramelizes the carrots and brings out their natural sweetness.
- Roast Until Tender-Crisp: Over-roasting can make the carrots mushy, so aim for a tender-crisp texture.
- Garnish Before Serving: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a pop of color and flavor to the dish.
Conclusion:
Make-Ahead Baked Carrots are a simple yet flavorful side dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. They are easy to prepare, customizable with various herbs and spices, and can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights. Whether you serve them as a healthy snack, a side dish with your favorite protein, or as part of a veggie platter, these roasted carrots will surely be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy this delicious and nutritious dish!
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