Parmesan Carrots
Creamy Parmesan carrots are tender, flavorful side dish with buttery richness and a cheesy kick, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the carrots and slice them into disks 3/8-inch thick. The thin tapered ends can be cut a little thicker.
- Put carrots and butter in a skillet large enough to contain the carrots in a single layer.
- Add enough water to come 1/4-inch up the side of the pan.
- Cook over moderate heat, uncovered, until carrots are tender and water has evaporated.
- Stir in salt, sugar, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfectly tender carrots, ensure they are sliced uniformly. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of black pepper or a dash of cayenne. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil and the Parmesan with nutritional yeast. This dish pairs beautifully with Fresh Blueberry Scones for a delightful brunch.
Serving Suggestions
These Parmesan carrots make a fantastic side dish for roasted meats or grilled fish. They complement rich flavors beautifully and can be served alongside dishes like Alfredo'S Mystery Pecan Pie for a well-rounded meal. For a vegetarian option, pair them with hearty grains or legumes, enhancing your plate with color and taste.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Parmesan carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Carrots contains roughly 54 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1752mg per serving (76% 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 instead of regular carrots?
Yes, baby carrots can be substituted for regular carrots. However, you may want to adjust the cooking time, as they may cook faster. Just ensure they are cut to a similar diameter for even cooking.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the carrots and cook them up to the point before adding the cheese. Store them in the fridge and add the Parmesan cheese just before serving to keep it fresh and flavorful.
What other cheeses can I use instead of Parmesan?
If you don't have Parmesan on hand, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great alternatives that will provide a similar salty and nutty flavor. For a milder taste, consider using mozzarella or a sprinkle of feta.
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).