Description
This Roasted Asparagus & Carrots recipe offers a simple and healthy vegetable side dish that is perfect for any meal. Tender, lightly caramelized carrots and crisp-tender asparagus are tossed in olive oil and flavorful seasonings, then roasted to perfection for 15-20 minutes. Finished with fresh lemon juice and optional Parmesan or parsley, this dish adds vibrant color and a delicious touch to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch sticks
Seasonings & Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or dried Italian seasoning
Finishing
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Optional toppings: grated Parmesan, fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare vegetables: Place the trimmed asparagus and carrot sticks on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme over the top.
- Toss vegetables: Use your hands or tongs to toss the vegetables directly on the sheet until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Spread them out in a single layer. If your asparagus spears are thin, keep them to one side of the baking sheet so you can remove them earlier if needed.
- Roast: Roast the vegetables for 15 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven. Stir once halfway through cooking for even roasting. The carrots should be tender and lightly caramelized, while the asparagus should be crisp-tender.
- Finish with lemon: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately drizzle fresh lemon juice over the roasted vegetables.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the roasted veggies and add more salt or pepper to your preference.
- Serve: Serve the roasted asparagus and carrots warm. Optionally, top with grated Parmesan cheese or sprinkle with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
Notes
- Choose asparagus spears that are similar in thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Cut carrots into evenly sized sticks for consistent roasting.
- Thicker asparagus spears may require the full 20 minutes, while very thin spears might only need 12 to 15 minutes.
- This side dish pairs well with chicken, fish, steak, or pasta dishes.
- You can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes before serving.
