Name: Roasted Carrots with Mint & Tahini Sauce: A Flavorful Side Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-483898H52M59S
Total time: PT-483898H52M59S
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb carrots, washed and peeled; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 3 tbsp tahini; 2-3 tbsp water; 1 tsp honey or maple syrup; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, chopped; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Roasted carrots with mint and tahini sauce make for a vibrant and nutritious side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. The natural sweetness of roasted carrots, enhanced by caramelization in the oven, contrasts deliciously with the creamy, nutty tahini sauce. Fresh mint adds a burst of brightness, making this dish both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re looking for a unique vegetable side for a holiday gathering or a quick weeknight addition, this dish delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Carrots
Olive oil
Garlic
Lemon juice
Tahini
Water
Honey or maple syrup
Ground cumin
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh mint leaves
Toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Carrots: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and peel the carrots, trimming off the tops. If the carrots are large, slice them in half lengthwise for even roasting.
Season and Roast: Arrange the carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and ground cumin, and toss to coat. Spread them out in a single layer.
Roast Until Tender: Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the carrots are tender and caramelized at the edges.
Make the Tahini Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and a few tablespoons of water until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
Assemble the Dish: Once the carrots are roasted, transfer them to a serving plate. Drizzle generously with the tahini sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh mint leaves over the top and optionally add toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch. Serve immediately while warm.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of harissa to the tahini sauce for a spicy version.
Herbal Twist: Substitute mint with fresh parsley or cilantro for a different herbal note.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pistachios for extra crunch and depth of flavor.
Citrus Boost: Add a zest of orange or lime to the tahini sauce for a citrusy lift.
Dairy Option: Mix in a dollop of Greek yogurt with the tahini sauce for extra creaminess.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the carrots may become too soft upon thawing.
Tahini Sauce Storage: Store extra sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week; thin with water if it thickens.

FAQs

How do I prevent the tahini sauce from getting too thick?

Tahini naturally thickens when mixed with acidic ingredients like lemon juice. Add water gradually while whisking to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?

Yes! Baby carrots roast faster, so reduce the roasting time to about 15-20 minutes.

What can I serve with this dish?

These roasted carrots pair well with grilled meats, grain bowls, or Middle Eastern-inspired meals.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the carrots in advance and reheat them before serving. The tahini sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes! Just ensure you’re using maple syrup instead of honey to keep it fully plant-based.

How can I make this dish more protein-rich?

Adding a sprinkle of toasted chickpeas or a side of hummus can increase the protein content.

Can I use dried mint instead of fresh?

Fresh mint is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use a small pinch of dried mint if needed.

What other vegetables can I roast with the carrots?

Try adding parsnips, sweet potatoes, or beets for a colorful medley.

Can I make the tahini sauce nut-free?

Yes, tahini is sesame-based, not nut-based, but if you have a sesame allergy, try sunflower seed butter instead.

How do I make the carrots extra crispy?

Roast them at a higher temperature (425°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan to enhance crispiness.

Conclusion

Roasted carrots with mint and tahini sauce offer a delightful combination of sweetness, earthiness, and creaminess, making them a perfect addition to any meal. This simple yet elegant dish is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, ensuring it will become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy a side dish that’s both nutritious and delicious!

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