Roasted Roots with Thyme (Printable)
Roasted carrots, parsnips, sweet potato, beet, and rutabaga with fresh thyme. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and ready in under an hour.
# What You'll Need:
→ Root Vegetables
01 - 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
02 - 2 parsnips, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
03 - 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
04 - 1 medium beet, peeled and cubed
05 - 1 small rutabaga or turnip, peeled and cubed
→ Aromatics & Herbs
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 - 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1 teaspoon sea salt
10 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Transfer all prepared root vegetables to a large mixing bowl.
03 - Drizzle vegetables with olive oil, then sprinkle with thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly until all vegetables are evenly coated.
04 - Spread seasoned vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, avoiding crowding to ensure even roasting.
05 - Roast for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking, until vegetables are golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork.
06 - Transfer roasted vegetables to serving dish and garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves if desired. Serve while hot.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The caramelization process turns humble roots into candy-like morsels with crispy edges and tender centers, no fancy technique required.
- You can prep everything earlier in the day, then just pop the tray in the oven while your main dish cooks, making dinner coordination practically effortless.
02 -
- I learned after several soggy attempts that washing roots right before roasting is a terrible idea, they need to be completely dry before the oil goes on.
- The parchment paper isnt just for easy cleanup, it prevents the natural sugars in the vegetables from burning and sticking to the pan.
03 -
- For an extra dimension of flavor, add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the olive oil mixture, which enhances the natural sweetness and creates an irresistible glaze.
- Dont discard those leafy carrot tops or beet greens, chop them finely and sprinkle over the finished dish for a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the rich roasted flavors.