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There’s something magical about roasted carrots—especially when you use a rainbow mix! Their natural sweetness intensifies in the oven, and with a little fresh thyme and a drizzle of olive oil, you’ve got a side dish that’s both elegant and effortless. Whether you’re making a simple weeknight dinner or dressing up your holiday table, these roasted rainbow carrots are sure to steal the show.
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious, these Roasted Rainbow Carrots with Thyme are calling your name!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Beautiful & Vibrant: Rainbow carrots add a pop of color to any meal, making them perfect for entertaining.
- Easy to Make: Just a few ingredients and the oven does all the work!
- Incredibly Flavorful: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots, complemented by the earthy aroma of fresh thyme.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Rainbow Carrots – Look for a mix of orange, purple, and yellow carrots for a stunning visual effect.
- Olive Oil – Helps the carrots caramelize beautifully while keeping them tender inside.
- Fresh Thyme – Adds a lovely hint of earthy, herby goodness (but dried thyme works in a pinch!).
- Garlic – Optional but highly recommended for a richer, more aromatic flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – Simple seasonings that bring out the natural sweetness of the carrots.
Pro Tip: If your carrots are thick, slice them in half lengthwise for even roasting!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and peel the carrots (optional, but I love the rustic look of unpeeled carrots). If they’re thick, halve them lengthwise.
- Season: Toss the carrots with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme leaves on a baking sheet.
- Roast: Spread them out in a single layer, making sure they have a little space. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
- Serve: Garnish with extra fresh thyme and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if desired. Enjoy warm!
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give the carrots space on the pan to roast properly—too close together and they’ll steam instead of caramelizing.
- Caramelization is Key: Let the edges get a little golden—it’s where all the flavor magic happens.
- Add a Flavor Boost: A drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze before serving adds a delightful twist.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Give it a Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it Vegan-Friendly: It already is, but for extra richness, swap olive oil for avocado oil.
- Pair it Perfectly: Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a hearty lentil salad.
FAQs
Can I use regular orange carrots?
Absolutely! Rainbow carrots are just a fun way to make this dish extra special, but regular carrots will work just as well.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Roast the carrots up to a day in advance and reheat them just before serving.
Roasted Rainbow Carrots with Thyme Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25-30 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb rainbow carrots, washed and trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (plus more for garnish)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a baking sheet, toss the carrots with olive oil, thyme, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Arrange in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra fresh thyme if desired. Enjoy!
There you have it—an easy, delicious, and downright beautiful side dish that will brighten up any table. If you try this recipe, I’d love to see your creation! Leave a comment below or tag your dish with #TheKitchensAid on social media.
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