Description
Crispy Smashed Carrots Bites are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish featuring tender carrot rounds that are boiled, smashed, seasoned with garlic and smoked paprika, topped with Parmesan cheese, and oven-roasted until golden and crispy. Garnished with fresh parsley, these bites offer a perfect combination of savory flavors and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds (about ¾ to 1 inch each)
Seasoning & Toppings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Boil Carrots: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the carrot rounds and cook for 10-12 minutes until they become fork-tender but still hold their shape. Drain and let them cool slightly to make them easier to handle.
- Smash Carrots: Arrange the boiled carrot rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press each round to flatten it carefully without breaking it into pieces.
- Season: Drizzle the smashed carrots evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over them to add depth of flavor.
- Add Parmesan: Evenly sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each carrot round to create a savory topping that will crisp during roasting.
- Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the carrots for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Roast until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, and serve the crispy smashed carrot bites hot.
Notes
- Boil the carrots just until fork-tender to ensure they don’t become mushy after smashing and roasting.
- Use a sturdy glass or measuring cup base to gently flatten the carrots without breaking them apart.
- Flip the carrot bites halfway through roasting for even browning and crispiness.
- For a dairy-free option, omit Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast.
- These bites pair well with a garlic aioli or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
