Carrots (Julians)(60 Calories Per Serving)
Sweet and tangy carrot juliennes with pineapple and orange juice, seasoned with cinnamon, perfect as a light side dish for healthy, flavorful meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and cut carrots into thick julienne strips.
- Drain pineapple chunks, reserving juice.
- In a skillet, combine carrots, pineapple juice, and orange juice.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until carrots are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in cinnamon and optional salt, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the mix. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can increase the cornstarch to 1.5 tablespoons. You can substitute fresh pineapple for canned if available, and try adding a pinch of nutmeg for a different spice profile. This dish also works well with other root vegetables like parsnips.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these carrots as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. They also pair wonderfully with dishes like Tina'S Apple-Asparagus Salad for a fresh touch. For a complete vegetarian option, serve over quinoa or brown rice for a filling dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Adding a splash of orange juice can help revive the flavors when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrots (Julians)(60 Calories Per Serving) contains roughly 1584 calories, with 12g protein, 230g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1027mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen carrots instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen carrots can be used, but they may require a longer cooking time to achieve the desired tenderness. Make sure to adjust the simmering time accordingly, and consider thawing them first for even cooking.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly since it uses plant-based ingredients. Just ensure that the orange juice and pineapple chunks are 100% juice without added sugars or preservatives.
What can I do if I don't have orange juice?
If you don't have orange juice, you can substitute it with apple juice or a mixture of lemon juice and water. This will maintain the dish's sweetness while adding a slight tang.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).