Description
A vibrant and flavorful roasted root vegetable medley featuring carrots, parsnips, sweet potato, red onion, and beets, tossed in a fragrant olive oil, garlic, and herb mixture, then oven-roasted to tender perfection with a caramelized exterior. This healthy and colorful side dish brings warmth and depth to any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (about 1 cup)
- 2 medium parsnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (about 1 cup)
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
- 1 medium red onion, cut into 1-inch wedges (about 1 cup)
- 2 medium beets, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 1 cup)
Seasoning & Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional, for drizzling after roasting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get it ready for roasting.
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash, peel, and cut all the vegetables into roughly 1-inch pieces. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
- Combine vegetables: Place the chopped carrots, parsnips, sweet potato, red onion, and beets into a large mixing bowl.
- Make the herb oil mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Coat the vegetables: Pour the herb oil mixture over the vegetables and toss thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Spread the vegetables out in a single layer on a large baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd them to allow for proper caramelization.
- Roast the vegetables: Place the sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes. At about the 20-minute mark, remove the sheet and flip the vegetables to promote even browning.
- Check for doneness: The vegetables are done when they are fork-tender and have a golden-brown, caramelized exterior.
- Cool slightly: Remove from the oven and allow the vegetables to cool for a few minutes.
- Add finishing touch: Optionally, drizzle the roasted vegetables with balsamic vinegar to enhance the depth of flavor.
- Serve: Transfer the roasted root vegetable medley to a serving platter and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Cutting vegetables into uniform pieces ensures even roasting.
- Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming instead of roasting.
- Flipping the vegetables halfway through roasting promotes caramelization and even cooking.
- Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy sweetness that complements the roasted flavors but can be omitted if preferred.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats, grains, or as a hearty vegetarian main with a side salad.