Name: Carrot Ribbons in Rosemary Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 3-4 large carrots; 1 Tbsp ghee or butter; 1/2 tsp fresh rosemary, minced (or ¼ tsp dried); 1/2 tsp fresh parsley, minced (or ¼ tsp dried); 1/4 tsp salt

You don’t need a spiralizer to create delightful Carrot Ribbons in Rosemary Butter Sauce! This simple yet elegant recipe showcases the natural sweetness of carrots, enhanced by fragrant rosemary and rich butter. Perfect for any occasion, this dish brings a touch of sophistication to your table while remaining healthy and suitable for various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep and 3 minutes of cook time, you can whip up this side dish in no time.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of rosemary and butter elevates the humble carrot, making it a standout addition to any meal.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair these carrot ribbons with grilled chicken, beef, or lamb for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Diet-Friendly: This recipe is paleo, AIP, vegetarian, and Whole30 compliant, making it suitable for many dietary needs.
No Special Equipment Needed: You don’t need a spiralizer or fancy tools—just a vegetable peeler will do!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather your essential tools beforehand. Having everything ready ensures that you can focus on creating delicious carrot ribbons without any hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Vegetable peeler
Steamer basket or metal colander
Saucepan
Small mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Vegetable peeler: This tool is key to creating the beautiful ribbons from the carrots. It’s easy to use and produces thin strips effortlessly.
Steamer basket: Using a steamer helps retain the vibrant color and nutrients of the carrots while achieving the perfect texture.
Small mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like rosemary and butter before tossing with the steamed carrots.

Ingredients

You don’t need a spiralizer to make these lovely carrot ribbons with rosemary butter! This recipe is paleo, AIP, vegetarian, and Whole30 friendly.

For the Carrot Ribbons

3-4 large, straight carrots (to make about 2 cups of carrot ribbons)

For the Rosemary Butter Sauce

1 Tbsp ghee or butter
1/2 tsp fresh rosemary, minced (or ¼ tsp dried rosemary, crushed)
1/2 tsp fresh parsley, minced (or ¼ tsp dried parsley flakes)
1/4 tsp salt

How to Make Carrot Ribbons in Rosemary Butter Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

Thoroughly wash the carrots under running water.
Lay one carrot flat on a counter or cutting board.
Using a vegetable peeler, peel along the length of the carrot to create long ribbons.
Rotate the carrot as necessary until you cannot peel anymore. Repeat with additional carrots until you have about 2 heaping cups of carrot ribbons.

Step 2: Steam the Carrot Ribbons

Fill a saucepan with about 1 inch of water and bring it to a boil.
Place the carrot ribbons in a steamer basket or metal colander and set it above the boiling water.
Cover with a lid and steam for approximately 3 minutes or until crisp-tender.

Step 3: Combine with Rosemary Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together ghee or butter, minced rosemary, parsley, and salt.
Once steamed, add the carrot ribbons to this mixture and toss gently to coat them evenly.
Serve immediately while warm for best flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Carrot Ribbons in Rosemary Butter Sauce, an elegant side dish that will impress your family and friends!

How to Serve Carrot Ribbons in Rosemary Butter Sauce

Carrot ribbons in rosemary butter sauce make a delightful side dish that pairs well with many meals. Their vibrant color and fresh flavor can enhance any plate, whether casual or festive.

As a Side for Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken is a fantastic match for carrot ribbons. The lightness of the carrots complements the savory grilled flavors perfectly.

Tossed into a Salad

Add carrot ribbons to your favorite salad for extra crunch and flavor. They bring a sweet contrast to bitter greens.

Paired with Quinoa or Rice

Serve carrot ribbons alongside fluffy quinoa or rice. The buttery sauce seeps into the grains, enhancing their taste.

Garnished on Top of Pasta

Use carrot ribbons as a colorful garnish on pasta dishes. They add a fresh element without overpowering the meal.

As an Elegant Appetizer

Present carrot ribbons as an elegant starter. Drizzle with extra rosemary butter and sprinkle with parsley for an inviting touch.

How to Perfect Carrot Ribbons in Rosemary Butter Sauce

Creating perfect carrot ribbons in rosemary butter sauce is simple with these tips. Follow them for a delightful outcome every time!

Use fresh carrots: Fresh, straight carrots yield better ribbons and enhance the dish’s flavor.
Cut evenly: Ensure you peel evenly to create uniform ribbons that cook evenly.
Don’t oversteam: Steam just until crisp-tender; overcooking can turn ribbons mushy.
Adjust seasoning: Customize the salt and herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Serve immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the dish right after tossing with the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Carrot Ribbons in Rosemary Butter Sauce

Carrot ribbons pair beautifully with various side dishes, creating well-rounded meals. Here are some top options to consider:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting complement.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add depth and balance to the sweetness of the carrots.
Lemon Herb Couscous: Light and zesty couscous brings out the freshness of the carrot ribbons.
Sautéed Greens: A mix of sautéed spinach or kale adds nutrition and vibrant color next to carrot ribbons.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes’ natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the earthy rosemary flavor.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears provide a crunchy contrast that enhances any meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Carrot Preparation: Skipping the washing step can lead to grit in your dish. Always wash your carrots thoroughly before peeling to ensure a clean and enjoyable meal.
Steaming Time: Overcooking the ribbons is a common mistake. Keep an eye on them while steaming; they should be crisp-tender after about 3 minutes.
Seasoning: Neglecting to taste the sauce before serving can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed for the best flavor.
Using Old Carrots: Choosing wilted or rubbery carrots affects the texture of your dish. Fresh, straight carrots will yield beautiful ribbons and better flavor.
Incorrect Storage: Not storing leftovers properly can lead to spoilage. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover carrot ribbons in an airtight container for up to three days.
Make sure they cool down before sealing the container to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Carrot Ribbons in Rosemary Butter Sauce

Freeze carrot ribbons in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.
Label the bag or container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Carrot Ribbons in Rosemary Butter Sauce

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place ribbons in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a skillet for about 3-5 minutes, tossing gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Carrot Ribbons in Rosemary Butter Sauce?
Carrot Ribbons in Rosemary Butter Sauce are thinly peeled carrots tossed in a flavorful rosemary-infused butter or ghee sauce, creating a delicious side dish.

Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or basil for different flavor profiles.

Are Carrot Ribbons suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They store well and make a great addition to salads or grain bowls throughout the week.

How do I make these carrot ribbons spicy?
You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when mixing the sauce for some heat!

Can I substitute ghee with another fat?
Yes! You can use olive oil or regular butter if preferred, maintaining that rich flavor.

Final Thoughts

Carrot Ribbons in Rosemary Butter Sauce offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that makes them perfect as a side dish. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile—feel free to customize it with different herbs or spices. Enjoy these vibrant ribbons at your next meal!