Rainbow Roasted Carrots

Few vegetables offer the visual appeal and flavor diversity quite like rainbow carrots. These vibrant root vegetables not only elevate the aesthetics of any table, but also pack a punch of sweet, earthy goodness.

Why you should embrace rainbow carrots

Unlike their traditional orange counterparts, rainbow carrots come in a stunning array of colors—red, purple, yellow, and white. Their vivid hues aren’t just for show; they indicate a diverse range of nutrients, each contributing its unique health benefits. From beta-carotene in orange carrots to anthocyanins in purple ones, these pigments offer antioxidants that support overall well-being.

Roasted Carrots are simple, yet spectacular

One of the best ways to enjoy traditional orange or rainbow carrots is by simply roasting them. This cooking method enhances their natural sweetness while imparting a caramelized exterior and a tender interior. The process is remarkably simple, making it great side dish to make for even the most novice cooks. All you need is a baking sheet, some olive oil, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and of course, a colorful assortment of rainbow carrots!

Get creative with roasted carrots

Roasted rainbow carrots are incredibly versatile, and while I prefer to keep it simple most of the time, these carrots do play well with other flavors allowing for creativity in the kitchen. For a classic touch, try tossing them with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting. For a touch of added sweetness, drizzle them with honey and a dash of balsamic vinegar. For a full punch of herbaceous flavor, toss with melted butter and lots of chopped dill before serving.

Celebrate the Carrot

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal for your family, these vibrant vegetables are sure to brighten your table and delight taste buds. So, embrace the rainbow, unleash your creativity, and savor the simple pleasure of roasted carrots!

Pro Tips:

• You can use this same recipes for the more easily sourced all orange carrots.
• If carrots are very large, slice down the middle lengthwise
• If using small carrots, check on them more regularly to prevent them from overcooking

How to pick carrots

According to America’s Test Kitchen carrots with their green tops attached boast rich, true carrot flavor.

Roasted Rainbow Carrots

These vibrant root vegetables not only elevate the aesthetics of any dish but also pack a punch of sweet, earthy goodness. Roasting carrots enhances their natural sweetness while imparting a caramelized exterior and a tender interior. All you need is a baking sheet, some olive oil, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and of course, a colorful assortment of rainbow carrots.

5 from 2 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs medium sized rainbow carrots (if possible with the green leaves still attached)
• 2 tbs olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp fresh black pepper (more or less to taste)
• 1 tbs chopped parsley

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 425°F and set grate to middle of the oven.
• Remove the green stems, leaving 1 inch of stem on the top.
  
• Wash and peel carrots. Cut any abnormally large carrots in half lengthwise to get all the carrots as close in size as possible. (Some variation here is okay!)
  
• Toss the carrots with olive oil and season all sides with salt & pepper. Place on a baking sheet and roast 15 minutes.
  
• Check for doneness, (you are looking for the carrots to be just tender when pierced with the tip of a knife- they will keep cooking once pulled from the oven.)
• Flip the carrots and continue to roast for another 10-15 minutes removing any ones that are done as you go.
• If you like your carrots with additional color, you can finish the carrots under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, but be sure not to burn!
• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warn or at room temperature.

Keyword carrots, side dish, vegetables