Roasted Asparagus & Carrots are the perfect vibrant and nutritious side dish that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. This simple recipe brings together the earthy sweetness of carrots and the bright, crisp bite of asparagus, oven-roasted to perfection. You’ll love the delicious balance of flavors, enhanced with olive oil, lemon, and your favorite seasonings. Whether you’re serving them with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main with quinoa, this dish is bound to become a go-to favorite.
Check out our creamy alternatives like Creamy Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a complete dinner idea.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh asparagus (trimmed, ends snapped off)
- 1 lb carrots (peeled and sliced into sticks, similar in size to asparagus)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Zest of ½ lemon (optional)
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or herbs like thyme or rosemary
Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven & Veggies
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Trim the woody ends off the asparagus.
- Peel and slice carrots so they match the asparagus in length and thickness for even roasting.
2. Season & Combine
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon zest if using.
- Make sure everything is well coated.
3. Roast to Perfection
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Roast for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges begin to caramelize. Carrots should be tender but not mushy, and asparagus should still have a slight crunch.
4. Serve with Style
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or a balsamic glaze if desired.
Looking for a refreshing side pairing? Try our Summer Corn Salad with Avocado for a flavor-packed combo.
Tips for Success:
- Choose young, tender carrots and medium-thick asparagus spears for best results.
- Don’t overcrowd your pan—use two sheets if necessary to ensure even roasting.
- Want to make it cheesy? Sprinkle with Parmesan in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- To prevent sogginess, avoid using frozen asparagus.
Discover great ideas like Crispy Juicy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs that pair well with roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating:
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Fridge | Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days. |
| Reheat | Bake at 375°F or use an Air Fryer. |
| Freezing | Not recommended. May turn mushy. |
Serving Ideas:
- With grilled salmon, baked chicken, or steak.
- Mix into pasta, grain bowls, or veggie tacos.
- Pair with dips like garlic aioli, honey mustard, or hollandaise.
Don’t miss our Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes for another hearty meal idea.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
| Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fat | Fiber | Vitamin A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 133 | 16g | 4g | 7g | 6g | 19800 IU |