Roasted Carrots and Chorizo Recipe
Introduction
This simple roasted carrots and chorizo dish combines sweet, tender carrots with the smoky, spicy flavor of Spanish chorizo. It’s a perfect side that’s easy to prepare and full of bold taste.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds medium carrots, scrubbed and thinly sliced into coins
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- 4 ounces Spanish chorizo, casing removed, thinly sliced into coins
- 1 lemon
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the oven to 425 degrees. On a sheet pan, toss the carrots with the olive oil until coated. Season generously with salt and pepper, then spread the carrots into an even layer. Top with the sliced chorizo.
- Step 2: Roast, stirring once or twice, until the chorizo is crisp and the carrots are tender, about 20 to 25 minutes. Zest and juice half the lemon over the pan, then stir to coat the ingredients, scraping up the rendered chorizo fat. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with the remaining lemon half cut into wedges for squeezing over.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder flavor, use less chorizo or substitute with smoked sausage.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth if your chorizo isn’t very smoky.
- Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley after roasting for a fresh finish.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until warmed through. Lemon juice can be added fresh after reheating for brightness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage instead of chorizo?
Yes, smoked sausage or andouille can be good substitutes, but they will alter the flavor slightly. Use a sausage with some fat content for the best roasting results.
How can I tell when the carrots are done?
The carrots should be tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. Roasting for 20 to 25 minutes at 425°F usually achieves this balance.
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Roasted Carrots and Chorizo Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This flavorful recipe combines sweet roasted carrots with savory Spanish chorizo, enhanced by bright lemon zest and juice. Roasting the ingredients together allows the chorizo to crisp while the carrots become tender and caramelized, making for a simple yet delicious side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 ½ pounds medium carrots, scrubbed and thinly sliced into coins
Meat
- 4 ounces Spanish chorizo, casing removed, thinly sliced into coins
Other
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting the carrots and chorizo to perfection.
- Prepare Carrots: On a sheet pan, toss the sliced carrots with the olive oil until they are evenly coated. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Add Chorizo: Spread the carrots into an even layer on the pan and top them with the thinly sliced chorizo, allowing the flavors to mingle during roasting.
- Roast Ingredients: Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring once or twice. This will crisp the chorizo and tenderize the carrots, developing a rich flavor and appealing texture.
- Add Lemon: Zest and juice half of the lemon directly over the roasted mixture. Stir well to coat the carrots and chorizo, scraping up any rendered chorizo fat to incorporate its flavor thoroughly.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve with the remaining lemon half cut into wedges for squeezing over the dish just before eating.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, use a hotter variety of Spanish chorizo or add a pinch of chili flakes.
- Ensure carrots are sliced evenly for uniform roasting.
- Serving this dish warm makes it most flavorful, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Use a rimmed baking sheet to prevent any juices or rendered fat from spilling in the oven.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated, or added to salads or grain bowls.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Spanish
Keywords: roasted carrots, chorizo recipe, Spanish chorizo, easy side dish, lemon zest carrots, oven roasted carrots
