Spicy Roasted Carrots With Tahini Sauce

Hey there, food lovers! I’m super excited to share one of my all-time go-to side dishes with you – Spicy Roasted Carrots with Tahini Sauce! If you’re looking for a way to jazz up your veggies, you’re in for a treat. This recipe is not only easy to whip up, but it’s also packed with flavor and a bit of a spicy kick, thanks to the harissa paste. Plus, that creamy tahini sauce is just pure magic. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

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What you'll need to make this Spicy Roasted Carrots

Serves: 4

• 1.3 lb carrots, peeled (600 gms)
• 2 tsp harissa paste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1⁄2 lemon, zest and juice
• 1 tbsp tahini
• 1 tsp honey
• 4 sprigs mint (leaves only)
• salt and pepper

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Let’s talk about the star ingredients that make this dish a winner! First up, we’ve got the carrots. I love using fresh, vibrant carrots because they roast up beautifully and have a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with our other flavors. The harissa paste is what brings the heat – it’s a North African chili paste that adds a spicy, smoky kick to the carrots. Don’t worry, it’s not too fiery, just enough to make your taste buds tingle! ️ Now, for the tahini sauce. Tahini is a creamy paste made from sesame seeds, and when you mix it with lemon juice, zest, and a touch of honey, it transforms into a luscious dressing that’s both tangy and smooth. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves adds a burst of freshness that ties everything together. These ingredients might be simple, but when combined, they create a dish that’s anything but ordinary!

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What you'll need to do

Prep time: 15 mins Cook time: 25 mins

Ready to spice up your veggie game? Let’s dive into making this delicious Spicy Roasted Carrots with Tahini Sauce. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!

Step 1: First things first, crank up your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab your carrots. Cut them into quarters lengthways but leave those cute green tips on – they add a nice touch. Lay them out on a baking tray, giving each carrot its own little space.

Step 2: Now, in a small bowl, mix together 2 teaspoons of harissa paste with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Got that spicy goodness? Brush it all over your carrots. Pop them in the oven and let them roast for about 25 minutes. Your kitchen is gonna smell amazing!

Step 3: While those carrots are getting all nice and roasted, let’s whip up the dressing. In another bowl, mix the zest and juice from half a lemon with 1 tablespoon of tahini and 1 teaspoon of honey. To get that perfect drizzly consistency, add water little by little until it’s like thin yogurt. Start with a tablespoon and add more if you need it. Don’t forget to season with a bit of salt and pepper!

Step 4: When your carrots are done roasting, transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle that yummy sesame and lemon dressing all over. For the final touch, cut some mint leaves into thin strips and sprinkle them on top. Voila! Your dish is ready to serve.

Enjoy these tasty, spicy roasted carrots with that creamy tahini sauce. Perfect as a side dish or a snack. Happy munching!

Do You Peel Carrots Before Roasting?

Peel carrots when you are using large, full-sized carrots. These tend to have a rougher exterior that appears a bit ashy and fibrous. Simply use a potato peeler to remove the skins.

Unpeeled: when using fresh, thinner carrots, some people prefer to leave on the skin for a rustic texture. This is perfectly fine and all about preference.

Shortcut: If you want to skip the peeling process altogether and save time, buy a bag of pre-peeled baby carrots. 

How Can I tell When Carrots are Done? If you are planning to roast baby carrots instead of full-sized, you simply need to adjust the cooking time. They tend to cook a couple of minutes faster, so pay close attention to when they turn golden brown and are fork-tender.

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Some possible substitution and improvisation ideas

Here are some substitution and improvisation ideas to make this recipe your own:

Substitutions:

Harissa Paste:

• Alternative: If you can’t find harissa paste, you can use sriracha or a mix of smoked paprika and chili flakes for a different kind of heat.

Tahini:

• Alternative: No tahini on hand? No problem! You can use peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty twist on the sauce.

Lemon:

• Alternative: Lime juice works great if you’re out of lemons, giving a slightly different but still zesty flavor.

Honey:

• Alternative: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a vegan alternative to honey, adding the same sweetness with a different flavor profile.

Mint Leaves:

• Alternative: Fresh parsley or cilantro can be used instead of mint for a different herbal note that still adds freshness.

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Improvisations:

Add a Crunch:

• Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds, chopped nuts (like almonds or pistachios), or pomegranate seeds on top for extra texture and flavor.

Spice Variations:

• Experiment with different spices in the harissa mixture. Add a pinch of cumin, coriander, or even a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist.

Veggie Mix:

• Don’t limit yourself to just carrots! Add other root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or beets to the roasting tray for a colorful and diverse veggie medley.

Creamy Twist:

• Mix a bit of Greek yogurt into the tahini sauce for an extra creamy texture and a slight tang.

Herb Mix:

• Combine mint with other fresh herbs like dill or basil for a more complex herb topping.

Citrus Boost:

• Add a bit of orange zest along with the lemon zest for a sweeter citrus flavor that complements the spice.

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These substitutions and improvisations can help you tailor the recipe to your tastes or what you have in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Some useful tips for the recipe

Here are some useful tips to make your Spicy Roasted Carrots with Tahini Sauce even better:

Useful Tips:

Carrot Prep:

• Make sure to cut the carrots into uniform sizes. This ensures they cook evenly and you get that perfect tender-crisp texture.

Oven Positioning:

• Place the baking tray in the middle of the oven for even roasting. If your carrots start to brown too quickly, you can move them to a lower rack.

Roasting Tips:

• Don’t overcrowd the baking tray. Giving the carrots space ensures they roast rather than steam, which helps them get that delicious caramelized exterior.

Check for Doneness:

• Roasting times can vary depending on the size of your carrot pieces. Start checking for doneness at around 20 minutes by piercing a carrot with a fork. They should be tender with a slight bite.

Adjust the Heat:

• If you’re sensitive to spice, start with 1 teaspoon of harissa paste and taste the mixture before adding more. You can always add more heat, but it’s hard to take it away!

Tahini Sauce Consistency:

• When mixing the tahini sauce, add water gradually. The sauce should be pourable but not too thin. It’s easier to thin it out with more water than to thicken it up again.

Enhance the Flavor:

• For a deeper flavor, let the roasted carrots cool slightly before drizzling the tahini sauce. This way, the sauce clings better and absorbs into the carrots.

Fresh Herbs:

• Add the fresh mint leaves right before serving to keep their vibrant color and fresh flavor. If added too early, they can wilt and lose their punch.

Serving Suggestions:

• These carrots are great warm, but they also taste amazing at room temperature. Perfect for prepping ahead if you’re entertaining.

Storage and Reheating:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain their texture, or enjoy them cold as part of a salad.

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These tips should help you achieve the best results and make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Happy cooking!

Some serving suggestions

Here are some serving suggestions to complement your Spicy Roasted Carrots with Tahini Sauce:

Serving Suggestions:

Grains and Greens:

• Serve these spicy roasted carrots over a bed of fluffy quinoa, couscous, or brown rice. Add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Try this recipe: Couscous and Fresh Green Apple Salad

Protein Pairings:

• Pair the carrots with grilled chicken, roasted lamb, or baked tofu for a balanced and hearty dish. The spicy and tangy flavors of the carrots complement savory proteins perfectly. Try this recipe: Grilled Lemon Chicken Salad

Mediterranean Feast:

• Make it a Mediterranean feast by serving the carrots alongside other dishes like hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, and pita bread. It’s perfect for a vibrant and flavorful spread. Try this recipe: Mediterranean Baked Feta Gnocchi

Wraps and Sandwiches:

• Add the roasted carrots to wraps or sandwiches. They’re great with falafel, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of extra tahini sauce all wrapped up in a soft flatbread or pita. Try this recipe: Mediterranean Falafel Pita Burgers

Salad Boost:

• Toss the roasted carrots into a mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese. The tahini sauce can double as a delicious salad dressing.

Bowl Meals:

• Create a colorful and nutritious bowl meal by combining the carrots with other roasted veggies, a grain like farro or bulgur, and a protein of your choice. Top with a dollop of hummus and extra mint. Try this recipe: Hot and Spicy Chicken Rice Bowl

Appetizer Platter:

• Serve the carrots as part of an appetizer platter with a variety of dips like tzatziki, muhammara, and olive tapenade. Add some crudités, olives, and breadsticks for a complete snack board.

Brunch Side:

• These carrots make a great addition to a brunch spread. Serve them with scrambled eggs, avocado toast, and a fresh fruit salad for a delightful and balanced meal.

Taco Topping:

• Use the roasted carrots as a unique and flavorful topping for tacos. Combine with black beans, avocado slices, pickled red onions, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a fun twist. Try this recipe: BBQ Tofu Tacos

Side Dish:

• Simply enjoy these carrots as a side dish with your favorite main courses. They’re a great way to add some spice and variety to any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

These serving suggestions should help you incorporate the Spicy Roasted Carrots with Tahini Sauce into various meals and occasions. Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite way to serve them!

Some storage suggestions

Here are some storage suggestions to keep your Spicy Roasted Carrots with Tahini Sauce fresh and delicious:

Refrigeration:

• Storage Container: Place the cooled roasted carrots in an airtight container. Store the tahini sauce separately in a small jar or container to keep it fresh.
• Shelf Life: The roasted carrots will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The tahini sauce can last for about a week.

Reheating:

• Oven Reheat: For the best texture, reheat the carrots in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps retain their roasted texture without becoming mushy.
• Microwave Reheat: If you're in a hurry, you can reheat the carrots in the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.

Serving Cold:

• These carrots are also delicious cold! If you prefer a chilled option, simply take them out of the fridge and drizzle with the tahini sauce just before serving. Perfect for salads or as a quick snack.

Freezing:

• Carrots Only: If you want to store the carrots for a longer period, you can freeze them. Place the cooled carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Thawing: When ready to use, thaw the carrots in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven as described above for the best results.

Batch Cooking:

• Double the Recipe: Consider making a double batch of the carrots. Enjoy some fresh and store the rest for later. This is a great time-saver for meal prep.
• Separate Dressing: Always store the tahini sauce separately and drizzle it over the carrots just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Labeling:

• Date Your Containers: Always label your storage containers with the date so you know how long they’ve been stored. This helps in keeping track of freshness and ensuring you consume them within the recommended time.

These storage tips will help you keep your Spicy Roasted Carrots with Tahini Sauce fresh and tasty, making it easy to enjoy them whenever you like.

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And there you have it, folks! Your Spicy Roasted Carrots with Tahini Sauce are ready to be devoured. ✨ Whether you’re serving them up as a tasty side dish or just snacking on them straight from the tray (no judgment here!), I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with me. Happy cooking, and until next time, keep those taste buds dancing! ️

Glycemic Index: 48 (low) Glycemic Load: 8 (Low)

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