Air-fried vegetables have become a regular in my home on weeknights. My family has been enjoying Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes, and Broccoli so much that it was time to try Air Fryer Carrots next.
Carrots are my hubby’s favorite vegetable, so I always pick up a bag or two from the farmer’s market. They’re crisp and naturally sweet, and roasting them in the air fryer further accentuates that sweetness. Air-frying highlights the beautiful rich flavor of this healthy root vegetable. And it’s a quick and easy side dish to add to any meal. These air fryer carrots are such a hit with the whole family, that I created multiple seasoning options (mentioned below), and they’re now a regular side dish on our table. It’s quick enough for the girls to put together too, especially with baby carrots. Let’s check out some reasons why you’ll want to include this delicious side in your meals! You might also like: Air Fryer Carrot Fries
Why Make These Air Fryer Carrots
Check out some key reasons you should try these Air Fryer Carrots!
Carrots are bursting with healthy vitamins and mineralsYou will only need 15 minutes to make this healthy side dishThis recipe includes Balsamic seasoning along with Maple Glazed, Mediterranean, Indian, Sweet & Spicy, and Italian seasoning options! Making these in the air fryer is quick and easy, and there is an oven-roasted option as well.
You might also enjoy this recipe for perfectly tender Instant Pot Steamed Carrots!
Ingredients- Notes & Substitutions
Carrots: Pick bright orange-colored carrots with a thin skin. Give them a rinse and pat them dry. Depending on personal preference, you can peel them or use as it is. You can use baby carrots for this recipe as well. Oil: Use avocado or olive oil for this recipe. Avocado oil is good in the air fryer because it has a high smoke point and does well in high heat. Seasoning: The simple balsamic, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper pair well with the roasted carrots. But if you’d like to try a variation, I have listed other options for yummy seasonings below. Baby Carrots: This recipe can also be made with baby carrots. Baby carrots are whole carrots that are harvested before they grow large. With a slight variation in nutrients, they have the same health benefits as regular carrots.
Seasoning Variation for Roasted Carrots
Maple Glazed Carrots: ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon maple syrupMediterranean: ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon ground cuminIndian: ¼ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, ¼-½ teaspoon cayenne powderSweet & Spicy: ¼ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon brown sugar or coconut sugar, ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼-½ teaspoon cayenne powderItalian: 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend. Garnish with 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
How to Make Air Fryer Crispy Carrots
It is really quite easy to make roasted carrots in the air fryer. It will take less time than roasting them in the oven and you’ll end up with a delicious result! Step 1: Let’s see how to cut carrots for roasting. Peel the carrots and cut them at an angle into 2-inch pieces, about ½-inch thick. You can skip this step if you are using baby carrots. Step 2: Season Carrots. Combine carrots, oil, vinegar and seasoning in a large mixing bowl. Toss well until carrots get evenly coated. Step 3: Air Fry Carrots. Preheat the air fryer at 375°F for 2 minutes. Spread the seasoned carrots in the fryer tray, in a single layer. You may have to cook these in 2 batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Step 4: Shake Basket and Continue Cooking. Air fryer for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Remove and check the carrots for doneness. For extra crispy, shake the basket and air fry for another 2 minutes.
Alternate Method: Balsamic Carrots in the Oven
If you are looking for an alternative way to roast carrots, especially a larger quantity, here is an option for the Balsamic Roasted Carrots Recipe in the oven.
Preheat the oven to 425°F Spread the seasoned carrots evenly on an aluminum lined baking sheet, in a single layer Cook for 20-22 minutes, flipping the carrots after 10 minutes
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s easy to reheat roasted carrots. To reheat the carrots cook them in the air fryer at 400°F for just 1-2 minutes. Add on additional minutes if needed.
Serving Suggestion
These sweet roasted carrots go great as a side dish with Mediterranean Chicken, this spicy Cajun Chicken, or Tandoori Chicken. I also love to pair it with Chana Dal or Chana Masala, or this homestyle Chicken Curry, with a side of soft and fluffy roti, for a simple and satisfying meal.
Recipe Tips & Notes
After you’ve tried the Air Fryer Balsamic Carrots, take a look at the listed seasoning variations to try a new flavor!Make sure to spread the carrots in a single layer in your air fryer tray. You may have to cook them in 2 batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.You can use this recipe with baby carrots as well! Simply skip the cutting step and follow remaining steps.For extra crispy carrots, shake the basket and air fry for an additional another 2 minutes.
Health Benefits of Carrots
It’s common knowledge that carrots are good for your eyes, but did you also know that with the antioxidants in carrots they can lower your risk of cancer and help your heart health! Carrots are an incredible source of key vitamins and minerals. They include vitamin A, vitamin, K, vitamin C, as well as potassium, fiber, calcium and iron. They’re also low in carbs when had in moderation. In half a cup of carrots there are 6 grams of total carbs, with 2 grams of fiber and 3 grams of natural sugar. The glycemic index for cooked carrots is low between 35 - 49.
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