Marinated Carrots
Marinated Carrots are a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines sweet and tangy elements. The crunchy carrots and onions are enveloped in a rich tomato-sugar dressing, making them a delightful addition to any meal. Perfect for picnics or barbecues, this dish is sure to impress guests with its unique taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and scrape the carrots. Cut in diagonal slices. Cook and drain. Cool.
- Combine carrots with raw onion rings in a bowl.
- In a saucepan, combine tomato soup, sugar, oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to boiling point; stir to dissolve sugar.
- Pour the hot mixture over the vegetables and mix together.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for added flavor. If you prefer a sweeter profile, substitute honey for sugar or use maple syrup. You can also swap the tomato soup for a homemade version using crushed tomatoes to reduce preservatives. Adjust the vinegar to your taste — apple cider vinegar can provide a milder flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These marinated carrots make a vibrant side dish alongside grilled meats or as part of a salad. They pair well with dishes like Stir Fried Veggies Medley for a colorful plate. Serve them chilled for a refreshing appetizer or as a topping for sandwiches. They also complement a picnic spread beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover marinated carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week, allowing the flavors to deepen over time. To enjoy them warm, you can reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinated Carrots contains roughly 195 calories, with 3g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 955mg per serving (42% 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 baby carrots for this recipe?
Yes, baby carrots can be substituted for regular carrots. However, make sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may require less time to soften. Just slice them diagonally to mimic the presentation of sliced carrots.
How long should I marinate the carrots?
For the best flavor, marinate the carrots for at least 12 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors of the marinade to fully penetrate the carrots, resulting in a more delicious dish.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already suitable for vegan diets as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that the tomato soup you use is vegan-friendly. You can also add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value.
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).