Citrusy Orange and Herb Carrot Coins

Tender on the inside, slightly charred on the outside, these roasted carrot coins are fragrant with a blend of herbs and tangy with a touch of orange juice. They're a quick and easy side dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Drizzle with extra orange juice or a squeeze of fresh lemon if you like.

The inspiration for these carrot coins came to me in the depths of winter, when I was craving something bright and flavorful to brighten up my meals. I had a bag of carrots in the fridge and a bottle of orange juice in the pantry, and I thought, why not combine them? The result is this simple but delicious dish that's become a staple in my kitchen. I love the way the carrots roast up until they're tender and slightly caramelized, and the herbs and orange juice add a lovely depth of flavor. They're a great side dish for any occasion, and they're also a healthy and satisfying snack.

Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 3 medium carrots
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub and peel the carrots, then slice them into 1-inch coins.
3. In a large bowl, combine the carrots, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast the carrots for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove the carrots from the oven and drizzle with orange juice.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve.

Why It Works

• Roasting the carrots at a high temperature helps them to develop a slightly caramelized exterior and a tender interior.
• The herbs and orange juice add a lovely depth of flavor to the carrots.
• Drizzling the carrots with orange juice after they come out of the oven helps to keep them moist and flavorful.
• The cilantro adds a fresh and herbaceous note to the dish.