Penny Carrots
Penny Carrots offer a tangy, sweet, and savory flavor combination with layered vegetables and a flavorful sauce, perfect for a refreshing cold side dish or light snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tomato soup, sugar, vinegar, salad oil, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook for 15 minutes, ensuring it does not scorch.
- Layer sliced carrots, slivered green pepper, chopped onion, and celery in a serving dish.
- Pour the hot sauce over the layered vegetables.
- Serve cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly different flavor, consider using fresh carrots instead of canned, as they will add more crunch and freshness. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for the vinegar for a sweeter note, or reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet dish. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick. This dish is also delicious when served with a side of Cabbage And Beet Bake.
Serving Suggestions
Penny Carrots make a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or a picnic spread. They pair well with Cajun Red Beans And Rice Salad for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, serve them alongside roasted chicken or fish. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together more over time, enhancing the dish's taste. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat until heated through, or serve cold as a refreshing salad side.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penny Carrots contains roughly 578 calories, with 5g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 660mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Penny Carrots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Penny Carrots a day in advance. Just layer the vegetables and pour the sauce over them, then cover and refrigerate. The flavors will develop beautifully overnight. Serve chilled or reheat gently before serving.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don’t have tomato soup, you can use crushed tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce. Just add some seasonings like salt, sugar, and a splash of vinegar to mimic the flavor profile of the soup. Adjust the consistency with a bit of water if needed.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it does not contain any animal products. Just ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you use is vegan-friendly, or substitute it with soy sauce for a similar umami flavor.
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).