Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that marries simplicity with flavor, and that’s exactly what you get with Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata. Growing up, my grandmother had a garden filled with vibrant, fresh vegetables, and every spring, we’d spend afternoons harvesting the ripest carrots. Their natural sweetness, enhanced by the warmth of the sun, always made them taste like a little piece of heaven. One of my favorite ways to prepare them was by roasting, allowing their sugars to caramelize beautifully. When I discovered gremolata, I knew it would elevate this dish to a whole new level.

The first time I served Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata at a dinner party, the response was overwhelmingly positive. The bright green dill and zesty lemon zest create a refreshing contrast to the tender, caramelized carrots. It’s a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also a celebration of flavors that complements any spring gathering. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this recipe is my go-to when I want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

Ingredients Overview for Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata

The ingredients for Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata are simple yet impactful. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. The carrots are the stars, and when paired with fresh dill and a zesty gremolata, they shine!

• 2 bunches carrots with tops (about 1 ½ pounds), scrubbed and tops trimmed to about 1-inch – Fresh, vibrant carrots are key here. Their natural sweetness deepens during roasting, giving them that beautiful caramelization.
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided – This rich oil adds moisture and depth of flavor to the dish.
• ½ teaspoon plus ? teaspoon kosher salt, divided – Salt enhances the carrots’ natural sweetness and balances flavors.
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped – Fresh dill provides a bright, herby note that transforms the dish.
• Zest from 1 lemon (about 1 teaspoon) – The lemon zest adds acidity, which brightens the entire dish.
• 1 garlic clove, finely chopped (½-1 teaspoon, depending on preference) – Garlic lends a subtle warmth and depth to the gremolata.
• 2-3 tablespoons crumbled feta – Optional, but it introduces a creamy, tangy element that complements the carrots beautifully.
• 2-4 tablespoons pistachios (optional), chopped – These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

How to Prepare Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata

Preparing Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata is a breeze, and I love how each step brings you closer to that delicious final dish. Let’s get started!

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. This temperature is perfect for roasting, as it allows the carrots to cook evenly while developing a lovely caramelization.

2. On a large sheet pan, arrange the cleaned and trimmed carrots. Make sure they’re spread out in a single layer for even cooking.

3. Drizzle ¼ cup of the olive oil over the carrots. This will help them roast beautifully and prevent them from drying out.

4. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of kosher salt over the carrots. Use your hands to roll the carrots around the pan, ensuring they’re well coated in oil and salt.

5. Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 25 minutes. The carrots should be tender and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid burning.

6. While the carrots are roasting, prepare the gremolata. In a small bowl, combine the remaining ¼ cup of olive oil, dill, lemon zest, garlic, and the remaining ? teaspoon of salt.

7. Whisk the mixture together. If it seems too thick, feel free to add an extra tablespoon or two of olive oil to achieve your desired consistency.

8. Once the carrots are finished roasting, transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon the freshly made dill gremolata generously over the top.

9. Finish with a sprinkle of crumbled feta and pistachios (if using). The feta adds creaminess, while the pistachios provide a delightful crunch.

Make It Your Own

If you’re looking to make Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata your own, there are plenty of creative ways to do so! Here are some ideas:

• Add sweetness: Consider drizzling a bit of honey or maple syrup over the carrots before roasting for a sweet touch.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the gremolata for a kick of heat.
• Herb swaps: Try using fresh thyme or parsley in place of dill if you want a different flavor profile.
• Nutty crunch: Toast the pistachios before sprinkling them on top to enhance their flavor.
• Cheese options: If you don’t have feta, try goat cheese for a different creamy texture.
• Serving variations: Serve the roasted carrots warm, at room temperature, or even cold in a salad.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the roasted carrots for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat in the oven.
• Pairing: These carrots pair wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making them a perfect side dish for any meal.

How to Enjoy Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata

When it comes to serving Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata, the possibilities are endless!

• Perfect for Spring Gatherings: The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make this dish an ideal choice for spring gatherings and outdoor barbecues.
• Pair with Main Dishes: These roasted carrots complement grilled meats beautifully, making them a fantastic side for your favorite protein.
• Lunch or Dinner: Serve them warm as a side for lunch or dinner; they’re delicious any time of the day.
• Salads and Bowls: Add the roasted carrots to salads or grain bowls for an extra punch of flavor and nutrition.
• Storage Tips: Cooked carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy leftovers as part of a delicious meal.
• Seasonal Pairings: Pair these carrots with spring ingredients like asparagus, peas, or fresh herbs to create a cohesive seasonal dish.

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata lies in its simplicity and the way it celebrates fresh ingredients. It’s a dish that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a burst of color to your table. I encourage you to try making this at home—it’s sure to become a favorite for gatherings and family dinners alike. So, roll up your sleeves, and let the vibrant flavors of spring inspire your cooking!

Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata

Experience the perfect harmony of flavors with Roasted Carrots with Dill Gremolata. This vibrant dish features sweet, tender carrots paired with a zesty, herby gremolata, making it an ideal side for any spring meal. Easy to prepare and stunning on the plate, it’s a must-try for your next gathering!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Frying Pan
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 2 bunches carrots with tops about 1 ½ pounds, scrubbed and tops trimmed to about 1-inch
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil divided
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt plus ? teaspoon, divided
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
• 1 lemon Zest from, about 1 teaspoon
• 1 clove garlic finely chopped, depending on how much garlic you like
• 2-3 tablespoons crumbled feta
• 2-4 tablespoons pistachios optional, chopped

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 425°F. This temperature is perfect for roasting, as it allows the carrots to cook evenly while developing a lovely caramelization.
• On a large sheet pan, arrange the cleaned and trimmed carrots. Make sure they’re spread out in a single layer for even cooking.
• Drizzle ¼ cup of the olive oil over the carrots. This will help them roast beautifully and prevent them from drying out.
• Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of kosher salt over the carrots. Use your hands to roll the carrots around the pan, ensuring they're well coated in oil and salt.
• Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 25 minutes. The carrots should be tender and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid burning.
• While the carrots are roasting, prepare the gremolata. In a small bowl, combine the remaining ¼ cup of olive oil, dill, lemon zest, garlic, and the remaining ? teaspoon of salt.
• Whisk the mixture together. If it seems too thick, feel free to add an extra tablespoon or two of olive oil to achieve your desired consistency.
• Once the carrots are finished roasting, transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon the freshly made dill gremolata generously over the top.
• Finish with a sprinkle of crumbled feta and pistachios (if using). The feta adds creaminess, while the pistachios provide a delightful crunch.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Keyword Dill Gremolata, easy side dish, Roasted Carrots Recipe, spring vegetables

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.