10-Minute Herbed Carrots Recipe
Introduction
These 10-Minute Herbed Carrots are a simple, flavorful side dish perfect for any meal. Steamed to tender perfection and tossed with fresh herbs and olive oil, they bring a bright and healthy touch to your plate.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (about 5) medium carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch-long sticks
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley, chives, or cilantro
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, more as needed
Instructions
- Step 1: Add about 1 inch of water to a saucepan and place a steamer basket inside. Heat over high until the water boils.
- Step 2: Add the carrots to the steamer basket, cover with a lid, and steam for 6 to 8 minutes until tender enough to pierce with a paring knife. For firmer carrots, begin testing at 4 minutes.
- Step 3: Transfer the steamed carrots to a large bowl. Add the olive oil, chopped herbs, and salt, then toss well to coat evenly.
- Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed. Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Tips & Variations
- Try using different fresh herbs like dill or tarragon for unique flavors.
- For a bit of sweetness, drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup before serving.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish just before serving.
- Use baby carrots whole if you prefer a quicker steaming time and a different texture.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy them cold as a refreshing side salad.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I steam the carrots without a steamer basket?
Yes, you can place the carrots directly in a small amount of boiling water and cover the pot. Just be careful to drain them well to avoid sogginess.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?
Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but use about one-third the amount since they are more concentrated. Add them after steaming while the carrots are still warm to release their aroma.
Print
10-Minute Herbed Carrots Recipe
- Total Time: 11 to 13 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This 10-Minute Herbed Carrots recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare tender steamed carrots tossed with extra-virgin olive oil and fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or cilantro. Perfect as a healthy side dish, it’s easy to make and adaptable to preferences with options to serve warm, room temperature, or chilled.
Ingredients
Carrots
- 1 pound (about 5) medium carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch-long sticks
Seasoning & Garnish
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley, chives, or cilantro
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, more as needed
Instructions
- Prepare the steaming setup: Add about 1 inch of water to a saucepan and place a steamer basket inside. Set the saucepan over high heat and bring the water to a boil.
- Steam the carrots: Place the peeled and cut carrot sticks into the steamer basket. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the carrots until tender enough to easily pierce with a paring knife, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. For a firmer texture, begin testing for doneness at 4 minutes.
- Toss with seasonings: Transfer the steamed carrots to a large bowl. Add the extra-virgin olive oil, chopped herbs (parsley, chives, or cilantro), and kosher salt. Toss everything together until the carrots are evenly coated.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the carrots and add more salt if needed. Transfer the carrots to a serving dish and serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled according to your preference.
- Store leftovers: Place any leftover herbed carrots in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep fresh for up to 4 days.
Notes
- Choose your favorite fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or cilantro for variation in flavor.
- Steaming preserves more nutrients and keeps the carrots tender and colorful.
- Adjust the steaming time based on your preferred level of carrot tenderness.
- Leftover herbed carrots are great for salads or as a cold side dish.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and low in calories.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: herbed carrots, steamed carrots, quick side dish, healthy carrots, vegan carrot recipe, gluten free side
