Roasted Parmesan Carrot Sticks with a Spicy Twist
When it comes to side dishes, simplicity often delivers the most flavor. These roasted Parmesan carrot sticks are proof that a handful of pantry staples can transform humble carrots into a show-stopping dish. With their golden, cheesy coating and a touch of heat, these carrots are destined to become a household favorite.
The magic begins with fresh carrots—sliced thinly lengthwise to ensure a tender, caramelized texture after roasting. Olive oil helps the carrots develop a crisp exterior while carrying the flavors of garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and the unique Acadian Cajun seasoning from Hot Under the Kilt. This blend of spices provides warmth and depth, balancing the sweet earthiness of the carrots with smoky and savory notes. If you don’t have the Cajun seasoning on hand, a combination of cayenne, black pepper, and a pinch of thyme can make a suitable substitute.
What sets this dish apart is its Parmesan coating. Instead of sprinkling the cheese on top, the carrots are rolled in Parmesan before roasting, creating a nutty, crispy crust that amplifies every bite. Pro tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for optimal melting and flavor—it’s worth the extra step.
Roasting at 400°F allows the carrots to achieve that perfect balance of caramelized edges and tender centers in just 25 minutes. The finishing touch of fresh parsley and a sprinkle of sea salt brings brightness and balance, making this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
These roasted Parmesan carrots are versatile enough to serve alongside roasted chicken, a hearty steak, or even a vegetarian grain bowl. They’re also a crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings or dinner parties, proving that even the simplest recipes can make a big impression.
A very generous thank you to CPMA for sponsoring this recipe. It is an honour to work with brands that align with our values and make it possible for us to share these recipes with you. We love the Half Your Plate program because it aims to educate Canadians of all ages about the importance of fresh produce consumption and encourages them to fill half their plates with fruits and vegetables to improve their health. As always, all recipes and opinions remain our own. Visit the Half Your Plate website for more information!
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Parmesan Roasted Carrots
- Yield: Serves 2-4 1x
Ingredients
- 6 medium carrots, peeled, cut in half and then thinly sliced lengthwise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp Hot Under the Kilt Acadian cajun seasoning
- 2/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- fresh parsley
- sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400
- Place the carrots in a large bowl.
- Top with the olive oil, garlic and spices, mix well.
- Place 1/4th of the parmesan cheese on a baking sheet, roll the carrots in the remaining parmesan and place on the baking sheet.
- Roast for 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and top with chopped parsley and sea salt
- Category: sides, vegetables, recipes
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