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What to Serve with Roasted Carrots? 13 Best Side Dishes

Roasted carrots are a go-to for many of us. They’re sweet, versatile, and pretty much foolproof. We all remember those veggie trays at parties, right?

Sometimes they get lost among the chips and dips. But when we roast them, it’s a whole different story! They become tender and caramelized, almost like candy.

Now, we can’t just have carrots hanging out alone. They need buddies on the plate. That’s where the magic happens! We’ve got some killer side dish ideas to turn our roasted carrots from a sidekick into the star of the meal.

Let’s take a look at what goes best with those glorious, golden sticks!

Top 13 Side Dishes for Roasted Carrots

Here are our top 13 side dishes that pair perfectly with roasted carrots:

1 – Herbed Quinoa Salad

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Herbed Quinoa & Chickpea Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing
This fresh, herbed quinoa and chickpea salad makes a satisfying lunch. It’s also a great side dish for holidays and potlucks. Gluten free and easily vegan.
Check out this recipe

We’ve all had our share of uninspiring salads, right? Herbed quinoa salad brings some pep to the plate.

Quinoa effortlessly soaks up flavors. Toss it with fresh herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil. It’s light but filling.

We can adjust the herbs based on preferences. Parsley, cilantro, or mint make it zingy. Add some cherry tomatoes for crunch.

This salad keeps well in the fridge. Great lunch option for busy days. Quinoa is packed with protein.

2 – Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

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Lemon and Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs
Lemon and Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs
Simple and delicious, these oven-baked chicken thighs are perfect for a last-minute weeknight meal. Combined with lemon and garlic, it’s a flavorful and easy recipe.
Check out this recipe

Do we sometimes roast too many carrots? Yes. Are we ever sorry? Never.

Lemon garlic chicken thighs are a solid combo with roasted carrots. The chicken gets juicy in the oven and holds all that garlicky goodness.

Season them well. We usually stick to lemon zest and Italian herbs.

Cooking tips? Use a cast-iron skillet for that nice sear. Juices from the chicken drip down onto the carrots. It’s all about the flavour.

Want extra crunch? Broil them for a quick finish. More texture, less boredom.

3 – Wild Rice Pilaf

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Wild Rice Pilaf - Love and Lemons
Wild Rice Pilaf – Love and Lemons
This wild rice pilaf recipe is an easy, delicious side dish! Flecked with dried cranberries and fresh herbs, it’s perfect for the holidays.
Check out this recipe

Do we really need rice at every meal? Wild rice brings a fun twist!

It has a nutty flavor that beats boring white rice.

The texture is chewier, which is a nice change.

We can add herbs or nuts for extra crunch.

Cooking it takes a bit more time, so plan ahead.

Using broth instead of water boosts flavors.

Perfect for absorbing sauces from our meats or veggies.

It’s also great for salads. We can even mix it with leftover roasted carrots for an instant upgrade!

4 – Maple Glazed Pork Chops

4
One Pan Maple Glazed Pork Chops
Easy one pan maple glazed pork chops with the best sauce and you can whip it all up in less than 30 minutes!
Check out this recipe

Ever thought about sweetening up your pork chops? Maple syrup is the way to go.

We coat the chops for a caramelized finish. It’s all about that sticky goodness.

Add a sprinkle of salt. It balances the sweetness.

Cooking tips? Sear them on high heat first.

That gives it a nice crust. After that, bake them to keep the moisture in.

We might want to serve with sides that soak up the glaze. It’s a total win at dinner.

5 – Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

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Mashed Cauliflower (Easy & Creamy) - Wholesome Yum
Mashed Cauliflower (Easy & Creamy) – Wholesome Yum
Learn how to make cauliflower mashed potatoes super smooth and creamy! You need only 5 ingredients for this easy mashed cauliflower recipe.
Check out this recipe

Creamy mashed cauliflower? It’s a sneaky cousin of mashed potatoes.

We can whip it up fast. Just steam some cauliflower and mash it up.

Butter and cream make it rich. Try adding garlic for a kick.

It’s light and cuts some calories. If we want some crunch, sprinkle bacon bits or herbs on top.

No need for fancy mixing bowls. One pot does the trick.

Leftovers save well too. Great for meal prep or a quick dinner side.

6 – Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto

6
Marinated Grilled Lamb Chops with a Mint Pesto
My Marinated Grilled Lamb Chops will make you smile! What’s on your grill this summer? I am by no stretch of the imagination a Grill Master, but I do
Check out this recipe

How do we feel about lamb chops with mint pesto? It’s like the most stylish pairing at dinner.

These chops are super flavourful. A good sear adds some serious texture and warmth.

Mint pesto makes it sing. The freshness cuts through the richness of the meat.

We usually like our lamb well-seasoned. Rosemary and garlic do wonders.

Serving a bit of extra pesto can make any bite pop. Don’t skip these little extras.

Overall, roasted veggies alongside is a solid idea.

7 – Fennel and Apple Slaw

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Fennel and Apple Slaw
Fennel and Apple Slaw
I received free product for this post, but as always, all opinions are my own! This time of the year is always
Check out this recipe

Fennel and apple slaw? Sounds intriguing, right? This slaw brings crunch and brightness to the plate.

Fennel has a mild licorice flavour. Apples add sweetness. Together, they create a fresh contrast.

Chop everything finely for even bites. Drizzle a tangy vinaigrette on top. A little lemon juice works wonders.

We can add nuts for crunch or cheese for creaminess.

This slaw pairs well with hearty dishes. It’s a solid way to brighten up any meal.

8 – Honey Mustard Salmon

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Honey Mustard Salmon is the Quick Dinner You’ve Been Looking For
Honey Mustard Salmon is the Quick Dinner You’ve Been Looking For
Dinner is just 6 ingredients and 20 minutes away with this Honey Mustard Salmon. It’s an easy and hands-free meal, simply throw together a quick salad or side and you’re good to go.
Check out this recipe

Honey mustard salmon is a classic that always shines on the plate. It’s simple to prepare and never goes out of style.

We can bake or grill it; both methods produce flaky results. Honey balances the mustard’s tanginess, giving it flair.

We should watch our cooking time. Overcooking ruins the texture. Fresh herbs can boost the flavor even more.

Add a splash of lemon for brightness. It pairs well with roasted carrots. We’re talking a winning combo every time.

9 – Saffron Risotto

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Saffron Risotto Recipe
Saffron Risotto Recipe
Saffron, wine, and beef tallow enrich this golden risotto with comforting flavor. Get the recipe at Food & Wine.
Check out this recipe

Saffron risotto sounds fancy, right? It’s creamy and comforting. Risotto takes time and gentle stirring—no rushing here.

Saffron gives it a beautiful colour. We can add broth slowly for flavor.

For a twist, toss in veggies or shrimp.

Watch the timing to get that al dente bite. Overcooked rice is a no-go.

Serving it hot makes all the difference. Pair with roasted carrots and it becomes restaurant-worthy.

10 – Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

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Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Balsamic - Love and Lemons
Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Balsamic – Love and Lemons
This roasted beet salad recipe is so simple and flavorful! Perfect for entertaining, it’s made with goat cheese, arugula, and balsamic.
Check out this recipe

Roasted beet and goat cheese salad? Talk about a combo!

It brings earthiness and creaminess to any meal. The sweetness of beets pairs well with tangy goat cheese.

We can throw in some nuts for crunch. Think walnuts or pecans.

Dressing matters. A simple balsamic vinaigrette amps it up.

We can roast the beets ahead of time. They keep well in the fridge.

Serving it chilled is refreshing. This dish helps lighten heavier meals. It’s a fast way to add some flair.

11 – Harissa Spiced Couscous

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Harissa couscous recipe | Good Food
Harissa couscous recipe | Good Food
This couscous makes a delicious accompaniment to lamb tagine and any other Moroccan style spicy dish. From BBC Good Food.
Check out this recipe

Harissa spiced couscous is a side dish that screams flavor. It’s quick to prepare. We can do this on a busy night without breaking a sweat.

The spicy harissa adds warmth. Couscous absorbs flavors nicely. Toss in some veggies and herbs for extra texture.

We often keep this stash handy. It complements meats and can stand alone. We can serve it warm or chilled, depending on our mood.

It’s a friendly option for meal prep. Leftovers taste great, too. Grab a fork and dig in.

12 – Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

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Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Vinegar & Honey
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Vinegar & Honey
TESTED & PERFECTED RECIPE – It’s hard to improve on simple roasted Brussels sprouts, but a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and honey bring the flavors alive.
Check out this recipe

Brussels sprouts can be controversial—they either charm or offend.

Roasting brings out sweetness. They’re crunchy on the outside and tender inside.

Balsamic glaze adds a punch. The tangy sweetness makes them irresistible.

We often season with garlic or a sprinkle of cheese for extra depth.

Timing matters. Don’t let them turn to mush. Feel free to toss in nuts for crunch.

Pair with meats or toss in salads. They stand strong beside any dish.

13 – Parmesan Crusted Cod

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Parmesan Crusted Cod
This PARMESAN CRUSTED COD is a simple cod recipe that’s low carb and ready in just 15 minutes. Easy to prepare and the whole family loves this flavorful fish.
Check out this recipe

Parmesan crusted cod? Who doesn’t want cheesy fish?

It’s easy to prep. Just coat cod with a butter and Parmesan mix. We can bake or pan-fry it. Both methods work well.

The Parmesan gives it a golden, crunchy bite. Fish remains flaky and moist. A squeeze of lemon brightens it up.

We can serve it with a salad, or with a starchy side for a nice balance. This dish makes any weeknight meal feel special.