Description
Discover the delightful taste of Balsamic Roasted Fennel and Carrots, a vibrant and healthy Mediterranean side dish. Tender carrots and caramelized fennel are seasoned with a perfect blend of balsamic vinegar, honey, and herbs, then roasted to perfection. This easy-to-make recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and full of rich flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment to a variety of main courses or grain bowls.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large fennel bulbs (trimmed and sliced into wedges)
- 4 large carrots (peeled and cut into sticks)
Seasonings & Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the fennel wedges and carrot sticks. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then add the honey or maple syrup along with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme or rosemary. Toss thoroughly to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Arrange and Roast: Spread the vegetables out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place in the oven and roast for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring or tossing the vegetables halfway through cooking. This promotes even roasting and helps the carrots become tender while the fennel caramelizes and develops a golden edge.
- Serve and Garnish: Once roasted to perfection, remove the vegetables from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm or at room temperature for an excellent side dish.
Notes
- This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, fish, or nourishing grain bowls.
- For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the vegetables just before serving.
- Feel free to add red onion or parsnips along with fennel and carrots for an interesting twist.