Description
Crispy Smashed Carrots Bites are a delightful and healthy appetizer featuring tender boiled carrot rounds smashed flat, seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese, then roasted to golden, crispy perfection. These savory bites are garnished with fresh parsley, making them a delicious and visually appealing snack or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into thick rounds (about ¾‑ to 1‑inch each)
Seasonings & 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 your oven to 425 °F (220 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for roasting the carrots.
- Boil Carrots: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the carrot rounds and cook for 10‑12 minutes until they are fork-tender but still hold their shape. Drain and allow them to cool slightly.
- 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 without breaking it completely.
- Season: Drizzle the smashed carrots with olive oil, then evenly sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over them for flavor.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over each carrot round to add a savory, crispy crust when roasted.
- Roast: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process, until they are golden and crispy around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Boiling the carrots until just tender helps them smash easily without falling apart.
- Use a sturdy glass or measuring cup to ensure even smashing of the carrot slices.
- Flipping halfway through roasting ensures even crispness on both sides.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture; leftovers can be reheated but may soften.
