
A culinary journey begins the moment the aroma of spice-roasted carrots wafts from the oven. This rustic yet refined dish transforms humble carrots into a gastronomic experience where their natural sweetness blooms beneath aromatic spices, enhanced by delicate, salty feta cheese. This recipe celebrates Mediterranean flavors and proves that a simple vegetable can become the star of any meal.
This dish consistently impresses dinner guests, with appreciative silence following the first bite - a testament to its transformative power.
Essential Ingredients
* Fresh Carrots (1 bunch): Select young, firm carrots with vibrant green tops
* Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use cold-pressed oil for its fruity notes
* Spice Blend: Paprika, cayenne, cumin, bay leaf and saffron create complex flavors
* Honey: Choose quality liquid honey, preferably floral
* Feta (50g): Use authentic Greek PDO feta for proper texture and taste
* Fresh Parsley: Select bright green, aromatic bunches

Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1. Carrot Preparation
- - Trim tops leaving 1cm stem for presentation
- Reserve tops for pesto or stock
- Clean thoroughly with soft brush
- Keep skins on for nutrients and color
- Halve lengthwise
- Ensure uniform sizing
- Pat dry with clean kitchen towel - 2. Initial Seasoning
- - Arrange carrots in large dish
- Drizzle quality olive oil
- Coat with spice blend
- Gently massage to distribute seasonings
- Add flaky sea salt
- Ensure even coating - 3. First Roasting
- - Preheat oven to 200°C conventional heat
- Place carrots cut-side down
- Space well for proper roasting
- Bake 15 minutes
- Watch for light caramelization - 4. Glaze and Final Roasting
- - Mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar and honey
- Remove carrots after initial roasting
- Brush with glaze mixture
- Reduce temperature to 160°C
- Continue cooking 15 minutes
- Test doneness with knife tip
Plating Technique
* Select a platter that highlights colors
* Arrange carrots with care
* Crumble feta gently over top
* Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley
* Finish with olive oil drizzle
* Add final sprinkle of sea salt
Recipe Variations
* Middle Eastern Style: Add za'atar and pine nuts
* Moroccan Style: Include ras el hanout and sliced almonds
* Indian Style: Use garam masala and coriander seeds
* Mediterranean Style: Add Kalamata olives and fresh rosemary
Serving Suggestions
* Main Course: Serve with herbed quinoa salad
* Side Dish: Pairs well with roasted chicken or grilled fish
* Appetizer: Present on arugula bed with toasted pine nuts
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- → What if I don’t have the Loubia spice mix?
- Just use a mix of paprika, cumin, chili powder, and, if you can, a pinch of saffron.
- → How do I pick the best carrots?
- Go for firm, shiny carrots with their greens still attached. Organic ones often pack more flavor.
- → Can I freeze this dish?
- It’s not the best idea—freezing changes the texture of both the carrots and feta.
- → How can I make this dish lighter?
- Cut back on the olive oil and choose a low-fat version of feta if you want.
- → What goes well with this dish?
- Serve it with couscous, quinoa, or even on a bed of fresh salad greens.