Smashed Carrots used to be one of those side dishes I shied away from because they seemed a bit tricky. But after a few tries, I found a method that fits perfectly into my weeknight routine. With just a few simple steps, you’ll get crispy, flavorful carrots that brighten up any meal. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you might just find yourself reaching for those carrots more often than you thought possible.
Recipe Card:
Air Fryer Smashed Carrots
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Pot
- Colander
- Fork
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 900 g Carrots peeled and trimmed
- 30 ml Olive oil optional: garlic powder, herbs
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 200 °C.
- Boil the carrots in a pot of water for about 10 minutes until they’re tender.
- Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Gently smash the carrots with a fork.
- Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Air fry for 15 minutes until they’re crispy.
Notes
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What Are Smashed Carrots?
Why They’re So Popular
Smashed carrots have become a favorite side dish because of their wonderful texture and taste. By smashing them, we can bring out the natural sugars, making them even more delicious.
Health Benefits Overview
Smashed carrots pack a punch with vitamins and nutrients, making them a great addition to your meals. They’re low in calories and high in fiber, which helps keep your digestion on track.
Smashed Carrots Nutrition Facts
Per Serving Breakdown
Serving size: 1 cup (128 g)
- Calories: 70
- Protein: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fat: 0.2 g
- Fiber: 4 g
Vitamins and Antioxidants
Smashed carrots are a fantastic source of:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin K
- Biotin
- Potassium
- Antioxidants
Air Fryer Smashed Carrots Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs carrots
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, herbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 °F.
- Peel and trim the carrots.
- Boil the carrots for about 10 minutes until they’re tender.
- Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Gently smash the carrots with a fork.
- Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Air fry for 15 minutes until they’re crispy.
Common Mistakes
Here are a few common slip-ups to avoid when making smashed carrots:
- Not boiling the carrots long enough before smashing.
- Overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Skipping the oil, which can make them dry.
Delicious Variations and Pairings
Regional Twists
In various cultures, people often season smashed carrots with different spices or serve them with unique sauces.
Best Side Dishes
Smashed carrots pair perfectly with:
- Roasted chicken
- Grilled fish
- Vegetable stews
Video: Ranch Smashed Baby Carrots With Parmesan
FAQ – Smashed Carrots
Question: Can I use baby carrots for this recipe?
Answer: Absolutely! They make a great choice, just keep an eye on the cooking time since they may require less boiling time. Aim for being firm but tender.
Question: How do I achieve extra crispiness?
Answer: Make sure to drain the carrots well after boiling, and don’t skip the olive oil. The oil helps them crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
Question: What if I don’t have an air fryer?
Answer: No worries! You can roast smashed carrots in the oven at 425 °F for about 25-30 minutes. Just spread them out on a baking sheet and keep an eye on them for that perfect crunch!
Conclusion
When you pull those Smashed Carrots out of the air fryer, they’re going to look golden and crispy, with savory aromas wafting through your kitchen. The gentle sweetness of the carrots balances perfectly with just the right amount of seasoning. If I can make these easily after a long day, so can you! Give it a try – you might be surprised how simple and satisfying this recipe can be on a busy weeknight.