Harissa Roasted Carrots with Tzatziki Recipe
This vibrant and flavorful recipe features harissa-spiced heirloom carrots roasted to perfection and served with a cooling tzatziki sauce. The roasted carrots are coated in a spicy blend of harissa paste, olive oil, cumin, and salt, then garnished with toasted almonds and fresh parsley for added texture and freshness. This dish pairs beautifully as a side or a light appetizer, balancing bold Middle Eastern spices with creamy, refreshing yogurt sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Carrots and Seasoning
- 4 tbsp harissa paste, divided
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt, to taste
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- 2 bunch heirloom carrots
Garnishes and Sauce
- 2 tbsp almonds, shaved
- 2 tbsp flat leaf parsley, roughly chopped
- 200 g tzatziki
Instructions
- Prepare the Carrots: Wash and peel the heirloom carrots if desired, then pat them dry. Cutting is optional based on size but generally left whole for roasting.
- Make the Harissa Mixture: In a bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of harissa paste with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, cumin powder, and salt to taste. Mix well to create a spicy coating for the carrots.
- Coat and Roast: Toss the carrots thoroughly in the harissa mixture until evenly coated. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Toast the Almonds: While the carrots roast, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the shaved almonds and toast until golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Plate and Garnish: Once carrots are roasted, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of harissa paste for extra flavor. Sprinkle the toasted almonds and chopped flat leaf parsley over the top.
- Serve with Tzatziki: Serve the roasted harissa carrots alongside generous dollops of chilled tzatziki, allowing guests to dip and balance the spicy, roasted flavors with cool yogurt sauce.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of harissa paste to control the spice level according to taste preference.
- Heirloom carrots vary in size; roasting time may need slight adjustment depending on their thickness.
- To toast almonds evenly, stir frequently and watch closely to prevent burning.
- Tzatziki can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, couscous, or as part of a mezze platter.
