If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful side that feels both fresh and comforting, the Roasted Carrots with Mint & Tahini Sauce Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Roasting brings a natural sweetness and richness to the carrots that perfectly balances the creamy, nutty tahini sauce infused with zesty lemon and cool mint. This dish is not only stunning to serve but also packed with textures and vibrant colors that make every bite fascinating. Trust me, once you try these roasted carrots smothered in that luscious mint-tahini dressing, it’ll quickly become one of your all-time favorite ways to enjoy this humble vegetable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that combine to create layers of delicious taste and texture. Each component, from the naturally sweet carrots to the bright mint and crunchy hazelnuts, plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect bite.
- 10–12 carrots: Choose firm, fresh carrots for the sweetest roasted flavor and a tender texture.
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the carrots caramelize beautifully while roasting without drying them out.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the natural sweetness and rounds out the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 cup tahini: Provides a creamy, slightly nutty base for the sauce, adding richness and depth.
- 1 clove garlic, crushed: Gives the sauce a gentle kick and aromatic warmth.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy brightness to balance the richness of the tahini.
- 1/3 cup fresh mint, roughly chopped: Offers a cooling, herbaceous note that lifts the dish.
- 1/2 tbsp honey (or 1 tbsp orange juice for Whole30): Introduces a subtle sweetness to harmonize the flavors.
- 3 tbsp water (add more if needed): Adjusts the tahini sauce to a silky, drizzle-friendly consistency.
- 2/3 cup hazelnuts, toasted and roughly chopped: Adds a lovely crunch and nutty aroma to finish the dish.
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped: Extra freshness for garnishing and adding that inviting pop of green.
How to Make Roasted Carrots with Mint & Tahini Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 200°C (390°F). This higher heat is perfect for roasting carrots so they become tender with a slight crisp on the edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Carrots
Wash your carrots thoroughly and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer for even roasting. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt, then toss them gently to ensure every carrot gets coated evenly for that perfect caramelization.
Step 3: Roast the Carrots
Pop the tray into your preheated oven. Roast the carrots for about 15 to 20 minutes until they’re tender but still have a slight bite to them. Remember, thicker carrots might need a little longer, so keep an eye by checking with a fork — it should slide in without resistance but not so easily that the carrot falls apart.
Step 4: Make the Tahini Sauce
While the carrots do their magic in the oven, blend together the tahini, crushed garlic, lemon juice, the bulk of the chopped mint, water, and honey (or orange juice). Aim for a smooth, creamy sauce that’s fluid enough to drizzle kindly over the warm carrots. Add more water, a tablespoon at a time, if the sauce feels too thick — this step makes all the difference for coating every bite luxuriously.
Step 5: Toast the Hazelnuts
In a dry frying pan over medium heat, toast the hazelnuts for about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning and release those warm, nutty aromas that beautifully complement the tahini sauce. Once toasted, let them cool before roughly chopping them for a satisfying crunch in every mouthful.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Lay the roasted carrots beautifully on your serving plate. Generously drizzle the tahini sauce over the top, making sure every carrot is kissed with its creamy goodness. Sprinkle the toasted hazelnuts and remaining chopped mint over the dish for bursts of texture and freshness that brighten up the presentation.
How to Serve Roasted Carrots with Mint & Tahini Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness and crunch are key to finishing this dish stylishly. A handful of chopped mint adds vibrant color and a cooling element, while toasted hazelnuts bring that irresistible crunch and a deep, nutty aroma that pairs exquisitely with the roasted carrots and tahini sauce.
Side Dishes
These roasted carrots are a fantastic partner to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even alongside a grain bowl to add a sweet-savory pop. You can also serve them with warm pita bread or a fresh green salad to make a balanced, veggie-forward meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the carrots over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa, then drizzle the tahini sauce for an eye-catching, wholesome main. Alternatively, arrange the carrots in a rustic wooden bowl for a casual family-style presentation or plate artistically with your favorite edible flowers for an impressive dinner party starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover roasted carrots and tahini sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps the carrots from becoming soggy and preserves the fresh flavor of the sauce. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing
While the roasted carrots themselves freeze well, the tahini sauce is best made fresh since freezing can alter its texture and flavor. You can freeze the carrots in a freezer-safe container for up to one month and then make a fresh batch of sauce when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Reheating
Reheat the carrots gently in the oven at a low temperature to maintain their slightly crisp edges. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them mushy. Drizzle fresh tahini sauce over warm carrots just before serving to keep that perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Absolutely! Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pistachios would all add great texture and complementary flavors. Just make sure to toast them lightly to bring out their aroma.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, it is! Just swap the honey for orange juice or maple syrup to keep it completely plant-based and deliciously sweet without any animal products.
Can I prepare the tahini sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tahini sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Give it a good stir before serving as it may thicken upon chilling.
How do I know when the carrots are properly roasted?
The carrots should be tender enough to pierce with a fork but still hold their shape without being mushy. The edges will have a delightful caramelized color and slight crispness.
Can this dish be served cold?
Definitely! The Roasted Carrots with Mint & Tahini Sauce Recipe tastes wonderful at room temperature or cold, making it ideal for picnics or packed lunches.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Carrots with Mint & Tahini Sauce Recipe is such a joyful way to celebrate simple ingredients transformed by thoughtful cooking. Whether you’re looking for a fresh spring side or a year-round crowd-pleaser, this dish delivers big on flavor, texture, and charm. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do — it truly makes every meal feel a little more special.
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Roasted Carrots with Mint & Tahini Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously roasted carrots elevated with a creamy mint and tahini sauce, garnished with toasted hazelnuts for a perfect blend of textures and flavors. This easy-to-make side dish or light main combines the natural sweetness of carrots with refreshing mint and a nutty tahini dressing for a delightful and healthy meal option.
Ingredients
Carrots
- 10–12 carrots
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- Pinch of salt
Tahini Sauce
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/3 cup fresh mint, roughly chopped
- 1/2 tbsp honey (or 1 tbsp orange juice for Whole30)
- 3 tbsp water (add more if needed for consistency)
Garnish
- 2/3 cup hazelnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) to get it ready for roasting the carrots.
- Prepare the Carrots: Wash the carrots thoroughly and pat them dry. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and toss gently to coat them evenly.
- Roast the Carrots: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the carrots for 15–20 minutes, or until they are tender but still have a slight firmness when pierced with a fork. Adjust the cooking time if the carrots are thicker or thinner.
- Make the Tahini Sauce: While the carrots roast, combine tahini, crushed garlic, lemon juice, roughly chopped mint, water, and honey or orange juice in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more water one tablespoon at a time if the sauce is too thick, until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Toast the Hazelnuts: Heat a dry pan over medium heat and toast the hazelnuts for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. Allow them to cool before roughly chopping.
- Assemble the Dish: Arrange the roasted carrots on a serving plate. Generously drizzle the tahini sauce over the top. Sprinkle with toasted hazelnuts and chopped fresh mint as garnish.
- Serve: Serve the dish warm or at room temperature as a flavorful side or a light main course. Enjoy the rich and refreshing combination of roasted carrots with the mint tahini sauce and crunchy hazelnuts.
Notes
- You can substitute orange juice in place of honey for a Whole30-compliant version.
- Adjust water in the tahini sauce to achieve desired consistency.
- Ensure carrots are not overcooked to maintain a slight firmness.
- Toast hazelnuts carefully to avoid burning and maintain optimal flavor.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
