| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 90 | 4.5g | 1.5g | 11g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 3g | 2g | 0.40g |
One of the recipes that I’m incredibly passionate about, and that seamlessly interweaves the vibrancy of my Californian upbringing with the warmth of my Gujarati heritage, is the sumptuously exquisite Za’atar Spice Roasted Carrots. It’s a delicacy that emanates rich flavors and textures, and it’s an embodiment of my culinary journey that explores the blending of cultures and cuisines.
The Fusion of Flavors
The fusion of the robust yet smack-on-the-palate Za’atar spice with the earthiness of fresh, Californian produce like carrots creates a symphony of taste that is hard to forget. Inspired by vegetable-centric dishes I’ve grown up eating in California and the zest of traditional Gujarati food, this dish brings forth a harmonized culmination which echoes the sentiment of my culinary philosophy – creating fusion food with depth and meaning.
Health Quotient
Now, this isn’t just a marriage of two beautiful culinary cultures, but it also aligns with my viewpoint of embedding health benefits within my cooking. Carrots, as we all know, are a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with essential antioxidants and vitamins. The use of olive oil, with its healthy fats, and lemon with its vitamin C content, all contribute towards enhancing the overall nutritional profile of the Za’atar Spice Roasted Carrots. That’s not all, Za’atar itself is known for its antioxidant properties, making the dish a healthy yet flavorful delight.
Za’atar Spice Roasted Carrots, though brilliant as a standalone dish, can be paired beautifully with various meals. It can act as a vibrant side to a hearty casserole or serve as a sophisticated accompaniment to a steamy bowl of quinoa. The crumbled feta atop the carrots lends this dish a refined touch, making it equally at home at a casual family dinner or a more regal gathering.
For me, each serving of the Za’atar Spice Roasted Carrots is a bit of the California sun meeting the warm, traditional spices of my Indian roots, right there on a plate. Try this creation and enjoy the burst of flavors, as well as the health benefits it brings to your table!
What You’ll Need
- 8 large carrots, peeled and halley lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp Za’atar spice blend
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Then, arrange the halved carrots on a large baking sheet.
Step Two
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, and Za’atar spice blend. Mix well until combined.
Step Three
Drizzle the spice and oil mixture over the carrots. Mix until all carrots are evenly coated with the mixture. Lay them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Step Four
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the carrots for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are tender and browned. Check and toss the carrots occasionally to ensure they roast evenly.
Step Five
While the carrots are roasting, zest and juice your lemon. After the carrots are done roasting, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a bit.
Step Six
Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving dish. Drizzle the lemon zest and juice over them. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese on top.
Step Seven
Serve the Za’atar Spice Roasted Carrots warm. Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious side dish with your favorite main course.
