Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's bursting with flavor and beautiful to look at? Then look no further! These Copper Penny Carrots are the perfect addition to any weeknight dinner or special occasion meal. Their vibrant color and subtly sweet taste will impress your family and friends, proving that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy and satisfying experience without requiring hours in the kitchen. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds (about 2 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Carrots
Begin by peeling and slicing your carrots into even, 1/2-inch thick rounds. Uniform size ensures even cooking. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cut carrots, but fresh, home-peeled carrots often taste sweeter.
Step 2: Sauté the Carrots
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the carrots and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Spices and Sweetness
Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and coat the carrots evenly. The brown sugar will start to caramelize, adding a beautiful depth of flavor.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection (Optional Butter Addition)
If using butter, add it to the skillet now. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the carrots are tender-crisp and the sauce has thickened slightly. This low and slow cooking method allows the carrots to absorb all the delicious flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Serve the Copper Penny Carrots immediately as a delightful accompaniment to your favorite protein and starch.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra sweetness: Add a teaspoon of maple syrup along with the brown sugar.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked quinoa or couscous to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for a heartier side dish.
- Roasted Variation: Toss the prepared carrots with olive oil, spices, and brown sugar and roast them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, until tender.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on butter use) Fat: 8-12g Carbohydrates: 20-25g Fiber: 4-5g Protein: 2-3g
These values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size.
This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick and healthy meal option. The Copper Penny Carrots are a versatile side dish that can be paired with various main courses, making them a staple in any healthy meal plan. Enjoy!