Spicy Parmesan Carrot Sticks: the Recipe for a Crunchy Side Dish!

Crispy parmesan and paprika carrot sticks are a tasty and different side dish than usual, to be prepared instead of classic roasted carrots or fried ones. It's ideal for accompanying meat, fish or egg-based main courses. To make them we cut the carrots with a sharp knife, before mixing them with olive oil, parmesan, paprika and breadcrumbs. Then, you just cook the carrots in the oven for about 35 minutes. They're also perfect as a healthy snack, to be dipped into some tasty sauce of your choice.

Should You Soak Carrot Sticks in Water?

Soaking carrot sticks in water before prepping them can be beneficial, especially if you're looking to maximize their crispness and freshness. When carrots are peeled and cut, they begin to dry out and may lose some of their natural crunch. Soaking them in cold water helps to rehydrate the cells, improving their texture and making them more appealing as a snack or as part of a dish. Additionally, if you're prepping carrots ahead of time, storing them in water in the refrigerator can prevent them from drying out and becoming limp. Just be sure to change the water daily to keep them fresh. This simple step ensures that your carrot sticks remain as vibrant and crunchy as possible, whether served immediately or stored for later use.

How To Accompany Carrot Sticks

Carrot sticks, with their crisp texture and sweet flavor, are incredibly versatile and can be accompanied by a variety of dips and pairings to enhance their taste. Hummus, with its creamy texture and rich flavors of tahini, lemon, and garlic, makes a classic and nutritious pairing. For those who enjoy a bit of tang and zest, a Greek yogurt dip flavored with dill, garlic, and lemon offers a refreshing contrast. Ranch dressing, beloved for its creamy and herby profile, serves as a comforting and familiar accompaniment. Alternatively, for a spicy kick, a Thai peanut sauce combining the sweetness of peanut butter with the heat of chili flakes and the tang of lime juice can elevate the humble carrot stick to a gourmet snack. Experimenting with different dips can turn carrot sticks from a simple snack into a culinary adventure, showcasing their ability to complement a wide range of flavors.

Tips and Variations

– Ensure each carrot stick is evenly coated with the olive oil and seasoning mixture to guarantee a uniform flavor and crispness.

– For extra crispiness, pat the carrot sticks dry before seasoning. Removing excess moisture helps achieve a better roast.

– Halfway through baking, rotate the tray and flip the carrot sticks to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.

– Experiment with different spices for varied flavors. Cumin, curry powder, or a bit of cayenne pepper can add a unique twist.

– Swap parmesan for other hard cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different taste profile.

– For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or crushed nuts instead of breadcrumbs. This substitution adds a nutty flavor and keeps the dish gluten-free.

– Add dried or fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the seasoning mix for an aromatic lift.

– For a sweeter take, sprinkle a little brown sugar or drizzle honey over the carrots before baking, and reduce the amount of salt.

– Omit the parmesan or replace it with nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor without using dairy.

How to Store Crispy Parmesan and Paprika Carrot Sticks

You can store crispy carrot sticks in the refrigerator for 2 days inside of an airtight container.

Find out how to prepare crispy parmesan and paprika carrot sticks following our step-by-step recipe and advice.

How to Make Crispy Parmesan and Paprika Carrot Sticks

Cut the carrots on a wooden board into sticks. Transfer them into a bowl.

Add a generous drizzle of olive oil and mix them with your hands to distribute it.

Then add the sweet paprika, the salt, the pepper, the parmesan cheese and the breadcrumbs.

Always using your hands, mix them to combine the coating.

Transfer the carrot sticks to a baking tray covered with parchment paper. Bake inside of a oven at 360°F (180°C) for about 35 minutes.

Serve the carrot sticks on a plate and enjoy while still hot and crispy!