Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love these roasted rainbow carrots for their vibrant appearance and amazing flavor. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness and depth of flavor in the carrots, and the colorful array of rainbow carrots adds a beautiful touch to your table. This dish is easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. Plus, it’s a healthy side that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients

2 lbs whole rainbow carrots (yellow, purple, orange, red)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon pepper

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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Rinse and peel the rainbow carrots, trimming off the tops and ends. You can leave the carrots whole or cut them in half lengthwise if they are particularly thick.
Place the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Drizzle the carrots with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper, ensuring the carrots are well-seasoned.
Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. You can check for doneness by piercing the carrots with a fork—they should be soft and cooked through.
Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

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

Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the carrots before roasting for added fragrance and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes on the carrots for some heat.
Sweet and Savory: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the carrots halfway through roasting for a sweet touch.
Garlic Butter: Toss the roasted carrots with minced garlic and melted butter after roasting for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover roasted rainbow carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave them until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular carrots instead of rainbow carrots?

Yes, you can use regular carrots instead of rainbow carrots. The flavor and texture will be the same, though you’ll miss the colorful presentation.

2. Can I make these roasted carrots in advance?

You can roast the carrots in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat them before serving to restore some of their texture and warmth.

3. Can I cut the carrots before roasting them?

Yes, if the carrots are large, you can cut them in half lengthwise or into smaller pieces to ensure even roasting. Just make sure they are all roughly the same size for consistent cooking.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or beets to the roasting pan for a colorful mix. Just make sure the vegetables have a similar cooking time to the carrots.

5. Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use other oils like avocado oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil if preferred. Olive oil, however, gives a great flavor to the carrots.

6. How can I tell when the carrots are done?

The carrots are done when they are fork-tender and slightly caramelized on the edges. You can also check the internal temperature—it should be about 190°F (88°C).

7. Are rainbow carrots sweeter than regular carrots?

Rainbow carrots can be sweeter and more flavorful than regular carrots, especially the purple and yellow varieties, which tend to have a slightly richer taste.

8. Can I add a glaze to these roasted carrots?

Yes, you can glaze the carrots halfway through roasting with honey, balsamic vinegar, or maple syrup for an added layer of flavor and sweetness.

9. Can I roast these carrots with the skin on?

Yes, you can roast the carrots with the skin on. Just make sure to wash and scrub them thoroughly before roasting.

10. How do I make these roasted carrots more savory?

To make them more savory, you can add garlic powder, onion powder, or even grated Parmesan cheese after roasting for a deeper, umami flavor.

Conclusion

These roasted rainbow carrots are an easy, colorful, and flavorful side dish that enhances any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy the natural sweetness of carrots, beautifully caramelized in the oven. Whether served with a casual dinner or a festive holiday feast, this recipe is sure to be a hit!