🥕 Air Fryer Roasted Carrots Recipe
These carrots are slightly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor — perfect as a side dish or healthy snack.
✅ Ingredients:
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1 lb (about 4–5 medium) carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
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1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
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½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
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½ tsp paprika or smoked paprika (optional)
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1 tsp dried herbs (like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning — optional)
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1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
Optional for garnish:
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Fresh parsley or dill
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Lemon zest or juice for brightness
🍽 Instructions:
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Prep the carrots:
Peel and slice carrots into uniform-sized sticks or rounds (½-inch thick) for even cooking. -
Season:
Toss the carrots in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, herbs, sweeteners, etc.). -
Preheat air fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 3-5 minutes. -
Air fry:
Place carrots in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding.
Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through, until golden and slightly crispy on the edges. -
Serve:
Garnish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or a drizzle of lemon juice, if desired. Serve warm.
❓ Q&A Section
Q: Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?
A: Yes! Baby carrots work great, but they may take slightly longer (15–18 minutes) since they’re thicker and have more moisture. Cut them in half for faster, more even cooking.
Q: Do I have to peel the carrots?
A: Not necessarily. If using organic carrots, you can simply scrub them clean and leave the peel on for added texture and nutrients.
Q: Can I make them sweet instead of savory?
A: Definitely! Skip the garlic and herbs, and instead toss with olive oil, honey/maple syrup, a pinch of cinnamon, and a little salt for a sweet twist.
Q: Why are my carrots still hard after air frying?
A: You may need to cook them longer, especially if the pieces are thick. Cut them smaller, ensure a single layer, and extend the cooking time in 2-minute increments until tender.
Q: Can I use frozen carrots?
A: Yes, but they may not get as crispy due to higher moisture content. Pat them dry and increase cooking time by a few minutes.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store roasted carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to revive the crispness.
Q: What flavors pair well with roasted carrots?
A: Try:
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Spicy: Add cayenne or chili flakes
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Zesty: Finish with lemon or orange zest
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Earthy: Use cumin, coriander, or turmeric
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Savory-sweet: Toss with a balsamic glaze after roasting.