Roasted Carrots with Walnuts and Tahini
This dish is all about balance—sweet, caramelized roasted carrots, creamy tahini, and just the right amount of crunch from walnuts.
It’s simple, packed with flavour, and nutrient-dense without trying too hard. Whether it’s a side or the star of the plate, I find it always hits the spot.
This dish is nutrient-dense, promoting overall health, energy, and vitality while providing a good balance of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
Ingredients
6 medium carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Himalayan Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional for sweetness)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the carrots: In a large bowl, toss the carrot sticks with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper until well coated.
Roast the carrots: Arrange the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned, turning halfway through.
Toast the walnuts: While the carrots are roasting, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and slightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the tahini sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, and maple syrup or honey (if using) until smooth. If it's too thick, you can thin it out with a little water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Assemble: Once the carrots are roasted, arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle the tahini sauce over the carrots, then sprinkle with toasted walnuts and fresh parsley for garnish.
Serve: Enjoy as a side dish or a light meal!
Nutritional Benefits
Heart Health: The combination of walnuts, olive oil, and tahini provides a strong source of healthy fats (omega-3s and monounsaturated fats), which support heart health.
Bone Health: The vitamin K from carrots and calcium from tahini contribute to strong bones.
Gut Health: The fiber from both carrots and walnuts helps with digestion, while tahini and walnuts offer protein that supports muscle repair.
Immune Support: Vitamin A (from carrots) and vitamin C (from lemon juice and carrots) work together to boost immunity.
Brain Function: Omega-3 fatty acids from walnuts and the antioxidants in carrots support cognitive health and help reduce inflammation.
