Sweet Basil Carrots

Sweet Basil Carrots Recipe - Vegetarian Italian Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Sweet Basil Carrots is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the fresh flavor of basil. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy addition to any meal.

History

The combination of sweet carrots and fragrant basil has been a popular flavor pairing for centuries. This recipe takes that classic combination and adds a modern twist with the addition of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

8 large carrots, sliced diagonally into 0.25-inch slices (peeling optional)
0.33 cup olive oil
0.25 cup maple syrup
2 heaping tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil

How to prepare

Steam the carrots over boiling water for 5 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. Remove and set them aside.
In a large skillet, heat the oil, maple syrup, and basil together until they are quite hot. Add the carrots and toss them until they are well-coated. Serve.
You can steam the carrots ahead of time and reheat them in the sauce just before serving.
Serves 4.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Substitute honey for the maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Toss in some toasted pine nuts or almonds for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the carrots diagonally to create an elegant presentation.

- Steaming the carrots before tossing them in the sauce helps to retain their natural crunch.

- Adjust the amount of maple syrup to suit your taste preferences - you can always add more or less to achieve the desired level of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Sweet Basil Carrots alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete and balanced meal. They also make a great addition to a vegetarian Buddha bowl.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the carrots before tossing them in the sauce helps to lock in their natural flavor and crunch. Be sure not to overcook them, as they should be tender-crisp.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil instead. Just use half the amount called for in the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can steam the carrots ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to toss them in the sauce. This makes for a quick and easy side dish that can be prepared in advance.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Sweet Basil Carrots in a colorful serving dish garnished with a sprig of fresh basil for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Sweet Basil Carrots pairs well with a variety of main dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and pasta dishes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sweet Basil Carrots contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sweet Basil Carrots contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Sweet Basil Carrots contains approximately 22 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Sweet Basil Carrots contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Carrots are a great source of vitamin A, vitamin K, and potassium. Basil is rich in vitamin K and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens.

Summary

Sweet Basil Carrots is a nutritious side dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of carbohydrates and healthy fats.

Summary

Sweet Basil Carrots is a simple and flavorful side dish that is perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that is both nutritious and delicious. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Sweet Basil Carrots. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy kitchen. Margaret was a fantastic cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. As I walked into her kitchen, I was immediately enveloped in the delightful aroma of fresh basil and sweet carrots wafting through the air.

Margaret greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a glass of iced tea. "I have a new recipe to share with you today, dear," she said, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "It's a simple yet delicious dish that I think you'll love."

As Margaret began to gather the ingredients, I watched intently, eager to learn the secret behind her culinary creations. She pulled out a bunch of vibrant green basil leaves, plump carrots, honey, and a few other pantry staples. The colors and textures of the ingredients were so appealing, and I couldn't wait to see how they would all come together.

Margaret began by washing and peeling the carrots, expertly slicing them into thin rounds. She then chopped the basil leaves into fine ribbons, releasing their intoxicating aroma. In a skillet, she heated some butter and olive oil, adding the carrots and letting them cook until they began to soften.

Next, Margaret sprinkled in some sugar to enhance the natural sweetness of the carrots, along with a splash of honey for a touch of richness. She then added a generous handful of the fresh basil, stirring everything together until the flavors melded beautifully.

As the dish cooked, Margaret shared with me the story behind the recipe. She had first tried Sweet Basil Carrots at a quaint little café during a weekend getaway with her husband. The combination of sweet, earthy carrots and fragrant basil had captivated her taste buds, and she had been determined to recreate the dish ever since.

After a few minutes of simmering, Margaret deemed the carrots perfectly tender and coated in a glossy, savory-sweet glaze. She plated the dish and garnished it with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and a few more basil leaves for a pop of color.

With a flourish, Margaret presented the Sweet Basil Carrots to me, a smile of anticipation on her face. I eagerly took a bite, and my taste buds were instantly transported to a world of flavor. The carrots were tender and sweet, with a subtle hint of basil that added a fresh, herbaceous note. The dish was simple yet elegant, a perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness.

I couldn't believe how such humble ingredients could come together to create such a delicious dish. Margaret had truly worked her magic in the kitchen, and I was grateful to have been able to witness her culinary prowess in action.

From that day on, Sweet Basil Carrots became a staple in my own recipe repertoire. Whenever I made the dish, I would think back to that sunny afternoon in Margaret's kitchen, where I had first learned the secret behind its delectable flavors.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing down Margaret's culinary legacy to the next generation. And each time I make Sweet Basil Carrots, I am reminded of the joy of cooking and the power of simple, wholesome ingredients to create moments of pure delight.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day in Margaret's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and the recipes that have enriched my life. Sweet Basil Carrots will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the beauty and magic that can be found in a humble dish made with love and care. And for that, I am truly thankful.