Add Some Color to Your Plate With Roasted Rainbow Carrots

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound rainbow carrots
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425F (220C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel the carrots and cut them in half lengthwise or into quarters if they are thick. Ensure the pieces are similar in size for even cooking.
3. Place the carrot pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
4. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, garlic salt, and black pepper.
6. After 15 minutes, remove the carrots from the oven and drizzle with the honey mixture. Toss to coat the carrots.
7. Return the carrots to the oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes, until they are tender and caramelized at the edges.
8. Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped rosemary if desired, and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	88
Total Fat	4g
Saturated Fat	1g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	264mg
Total Carbohydrate	14g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Total Sugars	8g
Protein	1g
Vitamin C	4mg
Calcium	38mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	280mg

Servings Per Recipe: 4

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is based on available data and may not be complete.

Rainbow carrots, roasted to perfection and lightly glazed, make for a vibrant and delicious side dish that can complement any main course. This simple yet flavorful recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots while adding a pop of color to your plate. But the appeal of roasted rainbow carrots extends far beyond their taste. Lets dive into their history, regional variations, and some interesting facts that make this dish so special.

History of Roasted Rainbow Carrots

The story of rainbow carrots begins with the carrot itself. While most modern carrots are orange, the vegetable was originally cultivated in various colors, including purple, yellow, red, and white. The orange variety became dominant in the 17th century, thanks in part to Dutch growers who bred them to honor the House of Orange. Over the past few decades, however, rainbow carrots have made a comeback, celebrated for their vibrant colors and the nutritional benefits they offer.

Roasting these colorful carrots is a simple yet effective way to bring out their natural sweetness, creating a delightful dish that is as much about aesthetics as it is about flavor.

Regional Features of Roasted Rainbow Carrots

While rainbow carrots are cultivated worldwide, their popularity varies by region. In Europe, particularly in France, rainbow carrots are a common sight in farmers' markets. In the United States, they are typically found in organic markets or specialty grocery stores. The appeal of rainbow carrots is not just visualthey are often prized in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, where the emphasis is on fresh, colorful vegetables. In these regions, roasting vegetables is a traditional method of cooking, often paired with herbs like rosemary and garlic for added flavor.

How This Dish Differs from Similar Recipes

Roasted rainbow carrots differ from regular roasted carrots primarily in their appearance and flavor profile. The mix of colorsranging from deep purple to golden yellowadds a visually striking element to the dish, making it stand out on the dinner table. Additionally, the use of honey in the glaze enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots, setting them apart from standard roasted vegetable recipes that may focus more on savory flavors. While classic roasted carrots are often seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and olive oil, the rainbow variety is elevated with the inclusion of garlic salt and the option of fresh rosemary, giving it an added complexity.

Where Roasted Rainbow Carrots Are Typically Served

Roasted rainbow carrots are commonly served as a side dish in a variety of settings. Whether at casual family dinners, festive holiday meals, or more formal dinner parties, they are a versatile accompaniment to meat dishes like roasted chicken, lamb, or steak. The dish is also a great addition to vegetarian or vegan meals, offering both nutrition and color. In restaurants, you might find roasted rainbow carrots as part of a seasonal menu, especially during the fall and winter months when root vegetables are at their peak.

Interesting Facts About Rainbow Carrots

• Rainbow carrots are not genetically modified; they are simply heirloom varieties that have been grown for centuries.
• The different colors of rainbow carrots signify different nutritional benefits, with purple carrots being rich in anthocyanins, which are antioxidants known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
• In addition to their health benefits, rainbow carrots can be used as a natural dye for foods like cakes, making them a fun and creative ingredient in the kitchen.
• The orange carrot, which is the most common variety today, was specifically bred by Dutch growers in the 17th century to honor the royal House of Orange. However, purple, yellow, and white carrots were the original cultivated varieties.

Next time you want to add some flair to your plate, try making roasted rainbow carrots. With their beautiful hues and delicious flavor, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

FAQ about Add Some Color to Your Plate With Roasted Rainbow Carrots