Roasted Asparagus and Carrots

Roasted asparagus and carrots are a delicious and healthy side dish that can brighten up any meal. This recipe features fresh vegetables that are roasted until tender and slightly caramelized. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add more vegetables to their diet. Asparagus and carrots are not only colorful but also rich in vitamins and minerals. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their taste. Plus, it takes very little time to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

How to Make Roasted Asparagus and Carrots

Making roasted asparagus and carrots is simple. Follow these steps to create this tasty dish:

Ingredients:

1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed (about 1 lb or 450g)
4-5 medium carrots, peeled and sliced diagonally
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or rosemary)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large bowl, combine the asparagus, carrots, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme (or rosemary), salt, and pepper.
Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
Remove from the oven and serve warm.

How to Serve Roasted Asparagus and Carrots

You can serve roasted asparagus and carrots as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or steak. They also work well with pasta or grain dishes for a vegetarian meal. For added flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice on top before serving.

How to Store Roasted Asparagus and Carrots

If you have leftovers, store the roasted asparagus and carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Roasted Asparagus and Carrots

Make sure to cut the carrots into even slices to ensure they cook evenly.
For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Feel free to substitute thyme with other herbs like oregano or basil based on your taste preferences.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if the vegetables have different cooking requirements.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus and carrots. However, they may need a bit longer to roast since they contain more moisture.

2. What can I do if I don’t have thyme or rosemary?
If you don’t have thyme or rosemary, you can use other herbs like basil, oregano, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare and toss the vegetables with oil and seasonings ahead of time. Just roast them right before serving for the best taste and texture.

Enjoy your delicious roasted asparagus and carrots! They are sure to be a hit at your table.