Crispy carrot sticks with parmesan and paprika are a delicious and slightly different side dish than usual and can be prepared instead of the classic roasted or fried carrots.
They go ideally with main dishes with meat, fish or eggs. To prepare them, we cut the carrots with a sharp knife and then mix them with olive oil, parmesan, paprika and breadcrumbs. Then we simply cook the carrots in the oven for about 35 minutes . They are also perfect as a healthy snack and can be dipped in a delicious sauce of your choice.
Should you soak carrot sticks in water?
It can be useful to soak carrot sticks in water before preparing them, especially if you want to maximize their crispness and freshness . When carrots are peeled and cut, they dry out and lose some of their natural crispness.
Soaking them in cold water helps rehydrate the cells, improving their texture and making them more appealing as a snack or as part of a dish. Additionally, if you prepare carrots in advance, you can prevent them from drying out and becoming limp by storing them in water in the refrigerator . Simply change the water daily to keep them fresh.
This simple measure will ensure your carrot sticks stay as fresh and crisp as possible, whether you serve them immediately or store them for later use.
How to use carrot sticks
Carrot sticks, with their crunchy texture and sweet taste, are incredibly versatile and can be enhanced in flavor with a variety of dips and combinations. Hummus, with its creamy texture and rich flavors of tahini, lemon, and garlic, is a classic and nutritious combination.
For those who like something a little tart and zesty, a dip made with Greek yogurt with dill, garlic, and lemon offers a refreshing contrast. Ranch dressing , popular for its creamy and herbaceous profile, serves as a comforting and familiar side dish.
Alternatively, for a spicy kick, use Thai peanut sauce , which combines the sweetness of peanut butter with the heat of chili flakes and the tart flavor of lime juice and can transform the humble carrot stick into a gourmet snack. Experimenting with different dips can transform carrot sticks from a simple snack into a culinary adventure, showcasing their ability to complement a wide range of flavors.
Tips and variations
– Make sure each carrot stick is evenly covered with the olive oil seasoning mixture to ensure consistent flavor and crispness.
– For extra crispiness, pat the carrot sticks dry before seasoning. Removing excess moisture will ensure a better frying result.
– Turn the tray halfway through the baking time and flip the carrot sticks so that they brown evenly on all sides.
– Experiment with different spices for varied flavors. Cumin, curry powder or a little cayenne pepper can add a unique touch.
– Swap Parmesan for other hard cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
– For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or chopped nuts instead of breadcrumbs. This substitute adds a nutty flavor and keeps the dish gluten-free.
– Add dried or fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme or oregano to the spice mix for an aromatic note.
– For a sweeter version, sprinkle some brown sugar before baking or drizzle the carrots with honey and reduce the amount of salt.
– Omit the Parmesan or replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheese flavor without dairy.
How to store crispy carrot sticks with parmesan and peppers
The crispy carrot sticks will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for two days .
Learn how to make crispy carrot sticks with parmesan and peppers by following our recipe and tips step by step.
Ingredients
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