Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these 20 flavorful whole carrot recipes! From savory roasted carrots to sweet baked goods, we’ve got you covered. Whole carrots are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and main courses.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or a show-stopping centerpiece, our recipes will inspire you to try something new with this humble root vegetable. With flavors ranging from sweet and sticky to spicy and tangy, there’s something for everyone in this collection of whole carrot recipes.
In the following pages, we’ll explore 20 creative ways to prepare whole carrots, including honey glazed carrots with thyme, roasted carrots with garlic and parmesan, balsamic glazed carrots with rosemary, and many more. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for some inspiration in your cooking, these recipes are sure to delight.
Stay tuned for the next installment of our whole carrot recipe series!
Honey Glazed Whole Carrots with Thyme
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of honey and carrots with the earthy flavor of thyme, creating a deliciously harmonious side dish. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a simple vegetarian option.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 whole carrots
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the carrots and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, and salt until well combined.
4. Place the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the honey glaze evenly over the carrots, making sure they’re all coated.
6. Sprinkle thyme sprigs over the carrots.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Whole Carrots with Garlic and Parmesan
Roasted Whole Carrots with Garlic and Parmesan: A simple yet flavorful recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots while adding a savory kick from garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 whole carrots, scrubbed clean and trimmed to fit on one baking sheet
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
3. Place the carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the garlic-infused oil over the carrots, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the carrots.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Whole Carrots with Rosemary
Elevate your roasted carrots game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of balsamic glaze with the earthiness of rosemary. This side dish is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 whole carrots
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the carrots and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the carrots, then sprinkle minced garlic and chopped rosemary.
4. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and brush with balsamic glaze.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Whole Carrot Harissa Skewers
Spicy Whole Carrot Harissa Skewers: A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional veggie skewers!
Ingredients:
– 12 whole carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup harissa paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
3. Add carrot pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the harissa mixture.
4. Thread 4-5 carrots onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until carrots are tender and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Enjoy your spicy and delicious Whole Carrot Harissa Skewers!
Maple Butter Whole Carrots with Toasted Pecans
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the richness of maple butter and the crunch of toasted pecans, creating a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large whole carrots
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the carrots and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the butter and maple syrup until well combined.
4. Place the carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the maple butter mixture evenly over each carrot.
5. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the carrots.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Carrot and Ginger Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect remedy for a chilly day, packed with the natural sweetness of carrots and the spicy warmth of ginger. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and nourishing meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large whole carrots
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the whole carrots and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove the carrots from the oven and let them cool slightly.
5. Peel the roasted carrots and add them to a blender or food processor along with the chopped ginger, vegetable broth, and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Blend until smooth, then heat the soup over medium heat if desired.
7. Stir in heavy cream, if using, and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herb-Crusted Whole Carrots with Lemon Zest
Elevate your snack game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of whole carrots with the brightness of lemon zest. Perfect for a quick and easy side dish or crunchy addition to your favorite salad.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 whole carrots, peeled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, dill, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Place the whole carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly onto each carrot, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Carrot and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the tender crunch of whole carrots and creamy chickpeas. It’s an easy and nutritious meal option for any day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and left whole
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the whole carrots, chickpeas, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 45-50 minutes or until carrots are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Whole Carrot and Potato Mash
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of whole carrots with the comfort of creamy spuds.
Ingredients:
– 2 large whole carrots
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the whole carrots in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While the carrots are roasting, boil the potato cubes in a large pot of salted water until they’re easily pierced with a fork. Drain and return to the pot.
4. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy.
5. Once the carrots are done, let them cool slightly before peeling and chopping into 1-inch pieces.
6. Add the carrot pieces to the potato mash and stir until well combined.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Whole Carrot and Cumin Roast
This simple yet flavorful roast brings out the natural sweetness of carrots, enhanced by the warm and earthy taste of cumin. Perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 whole carrots
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the carrots, then pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the carrots to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
5. Place the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Whole Carrot and Orange Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a great addition to any meal or as a healthy snack. The combination of juicy oranges and crunchy carrots creates a delightful texture that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 large whole carrots
– 2 navel oranges
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel the carrots and slice them into 1-inch pieces.
2. Cut the oranges in half and juice one of them, reserving the other for serving.
3. In a large bowl, combine the carrot slices, orange juice, and honey. Toss until the carrots are evenly coated.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with the reserved orange halves.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Whole Carrot and Turmeric Rice
This vibrant rice dish combines the natural sweetness of whole carrots with the warm, earthy flavor of turmeric, making it a perfect side for any meal. With its simple preparation and impressive color, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated (about 2 cups)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. While the rice cooks, heat the grated carrot in a separate saucepan with 1 tablespoon of water over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the carrot is tender and lightly caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Stir in the turmeric and season with salt to taste.
6. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and combine with the cooked carrot mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Carrot and Lentil Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry made with tender whole carrots and red lentils, simmered in a rich and aromatic spice blend. Perfect as a main dish or side, this recipe is also vegan-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add carrots, lentils, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until carrots are tender.
4. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Whole Carrot and Sesame Stir-Fry
This Asian-inspired stir-fry is a vibrant and flavorful vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The sweet and nutty flavors of the sesame seeds pair beautifully with the natural sweetness of the carrots.
Ingredients:
– 2 large whole carrots, peeled
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sesame oil, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add the whole carrots; cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Whole Carrot and Coconut Milk Curry
Experience the creamy, comforting flavors of India with this simple recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of whole carrots. This vibrant curry is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large whole carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add chopped carrots and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until carrots are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Carrot and Quinoa Pilaf
This vibrant pilaf is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the natural sweetness of whole carrots with the nutty taste of quinoa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy addition to your next potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 4 large whole carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender and fluffy.
3. While quinoa cooks, toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in roasted carrots. Season to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Whole Carrot and Feta Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted peppers with the savory flavors of whole carrot and crumbly feta cheese, creating a delightful vegetarian main dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread on a baking sheet.
4. Roast carrots for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Stuff each pepper with roasted carrot, feta cheese, and garlic.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Whole Carrot and Almond Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the natural sweetness of carrots balanced by the crunch of toasted almonds. A delightful twist on traditional carrot cake recipes!
Ingredients:
– 2 large whole carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add grated carrots, softened butter, eggs, chopped almonds, and cinnamon to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Whole Carrot and Raisin Muffins
A sweet and nutritious breakfast or snack option that combines the natural sweetness of whole carrots with the chewiness of plump raisins.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated whole carrot
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine grated carrot, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chopped raisins.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Carrot and Walnut Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the earthy taste of walnuts, perfect for a snack or sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 large whole carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add grated carrots, chopped walnuts, honey, milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover new ways to cook with whole carrots! This article features 20 delicious and creative recipes that showcase the versatility of this humble vegetable. From sweet treats like Whole Carrot and Almond Cake, to savory dishes like Roasted Whole Carrots with Garlic and Parmesan, there’s something for everyone. Explore global flavors with Whole Carrot and Ginger Soup, or try something new with Spicy Whole Carrot Harissa Skewers. These recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy whole carrots in a whole new way!
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