Chili Roasted Carrots with Avocado Cilantro Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for its incredible balance of flavors. The heat from the chili roasted carrots pairs wonderfully with the cooling and creamy avocado cilantro dressing, making it a delicious contrast that you won’t be able to get enough of. The roasted carrots are tender, caramelized, and packed with flavor, while the dressing adds a refreshing finish. It’s a unique and exciting way to enjoy carrots, and it’s healthy too!

Ingredients

• 10 medium-large sized carrots
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon prepared chili powder
• Avocado cilantro dressing (recipe below)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and trim the carrots, cutting them into evenly sized pieces, or leave them whole if you prefer.
3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, salt, and chili powder until they are well coated.
4. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
5. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly caramelized. You can check for doneness by piercing the carrots with a fork—they should be soft but still have a bit of bite.
6. While the carrots are roasting, prepare the avocado cilantro dressing by blending the following ingredients until smooth:
   • 1 ripe avocado
   • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
   • 2 tablespoons lime juice
   • 2 tablespoons olive oil
   • 1 small garlic clove
   • Salt and pepper to taste
   • A little water to thin the dressing if needed
7. Once the carrots are roasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
8. Drizzle the avocado cilantro dressing over the warm roasted carrots before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people as a side dish.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the carrots for an extra spicy flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Incorporate a bit of lemon zest into the avocado cilantro dressing for an added citrusy flavor.
• Herb Blend: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try swapping it with parsley, mint, or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Nuts and Seeds: Add toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed almonds for a nice crunch on top of the roasted carrots.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The avocado cilantro dressing can also be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the roasted carrots in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. The dressing should be added fresh just before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use baby carrots for this recipe?

Yes, you can use baby carrots instead of regular-sized ones. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so adjust the roasting time accordingly.

2. Can I make the avocado cilantro dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the avocado cilantro dressing in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

3. How can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly, so no substitutions are necessary. The creamy avocado cilantro dressing provides a rich, dairy-free option.

4. Can I make the carrots spicier?

Yes, if you like a spicier kick, you can add more chili powder or include some cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for extra heat.

5. Can I use a different dressing with the roasted carrots?

Of course! If you’re not a fan of avocado, you can try a tahini dressing, yogurt-based dressing, or even a simple olive oil and lemon dressing.

6. Can I make this recipe on the grill instead of in the oven?

Yes, you can grill the carrots instead of roasting them. Simply preheat the grill to medium heat, place the seasoned carrots on the grill, and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are tender and charred.

7. Can I use pre-made chili seasoning instead of chili powder?

Yes, you can use pre-made chili seasoning, but be mindful of the salt content, as some blends might already contain salt.

8. What other vegetables can I use in this recipe?

You can swap the carrots for other root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, parsnips, or beets. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the size of the vegetables.

9. Can I add protein to this dish to make it a complete meal?

Yes! This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal. You could also add chickpeas for a plant-based protein option.

10. Can I make this recipe in advance for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the roasted carrots and dressing in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and reheat the carrots when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Chili roasted carrots with avocado cilantro dressing are an exciting and flavorful way to enjoy a simple vegetable. The combination of spicy roasted carrots with the creamy, zesty dressing is irresistible and makes for a great side dish or a light, healthy meal. With easy prep and endless variations, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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