Spicy Harissa Roasted Carrots (Printable)

Tender carrots roasted with bold harissa glaze and fresh herbs for a vibrant, flavorful side.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks

→ Marinade

02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1 1/2 tbsp harissa paste
04 - 1 tbsp maple syrup
05 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
06 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
07 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
08 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ Garnish

09 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
10 - 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
11 - Lemon wedges, for serving

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Whisk together olive oil, harissa paste, maple syrup, cumin, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
03 - Add carrot sticks to the bowl and toss until thoroughly coated with the marinade.
04 - Spread the marinated carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
05 - Roast carrots in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
06 - Transfer carrots to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley and toasted sesame seeds. Serve with lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • A side dish that feels like you've brought restaurant-quality flavors straight to your table with minimal effort
  • The harissa paste does all the heavy lifting—you're not fussing with dozens of spices, just one bold ingredient that transforms everything
  • Naturally vegan and gluten-free, but nobody will notice because they'll be too busy asking for the recipe
02 -
  • Harissa paste is powerful and varies by brand—some are much spicier than others. Start with the amount called for and adjust next time if you want more or less heat. Tasting as you go is your friend here.
  • Don't skip turning the carrots halfway through. It sounds like a small thing, but it ensures they caramelize evenly and develop that beautiful, slightly charred exterior on all sides.
  • If your carrots are very thick or very thin, adjust the roasting time. Thicker pieces might need 35 minutes; thinner ones might be done in 20. You're looking for tender insides and caramelized edges.
03 -
  • For extra heat and texture, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the marinade. Start small—a quarter teaspoon goes a long way.
  • Try rainbow carrots when you can find them. They roast beautifully and create a stunning presentation that makes people think you spent hours on this.
  • Toast your sesame seeds yourself if you have time. Warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes until fragrant. The difference in flavor is noticeable and worth those few extra minutes.

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