Herb-Butter Baby Carrots Recipe

Introduction

Herb-buttered baby carrots are a simple yet elegant side dish that brings vibrant color and fresh flavor to your plate. Tender carrots are bathed in a rich, aromatic butter infused with tarragon, parsley, and wholegrain mustard, making them a perfect complement to any meal.

Ingredients

• 80g butter, softened
• 1 tbsp finely chopped tarragon
• 1½ tbsp finely chopped parsley
• ½ tbsp wholegrain mustard
• 1kg baby carrots

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, mash the softened butter with tarragon, parsley, wholegrain mustard, and a pinch of seasoning until well combined. Cover and chill until needed. This herb butter can be made up to three days ahead.
2. Step 2: Trim the long green tops from the baby carrots and wash them thoroughly under cold running water, scrubbing gently to remove any dirt. Halve the carrots lengthways to ensure even cooking.
3. Step 3: Place the carrots in a large microwave-safe bowl with 3 tablespoons of water. Cover with a microwaveable plate or lid and cook on full power for 8–10 minutes, or until just tender.
4. Step 4: Drain the carrots and toss them immediately with the chilled herb butter. Serve warm for the best flavor.

Tips & Variations

• If you don’t have a microwave, steam the carrots for 10–12 minutes until tender, then toss with the herb butter in a warm serving bowl.

Storage

Store any leftover herb butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Cooked carrots are best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for 1–2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or steam until warmed through before tossing with the herb butter again.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?

Yes, but slice regular carrots into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Cooking times may be longer depending on size.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Substitute the butter with a plant-based spread and ensure the mustard used is vegan-friendly for a dairy-free version.

Herb-Butter Baby Carrots Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 144 reviews

• Author: Ben
• Total Time: 18-20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This recipe features tender baby carrots tossed in a flavorful herb-butter mixture made with tarragon, parsley, and wholegrain mustard. The carrots are quickly cooked in the microwave to retain their natural sweetness and vibrant color, making it a simple yet elegant side dish perfect for any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Herb Butter

• 80g butter, softened
• 1 tbsp finely chopped tarragon
• 1½ tbsp finely chopped parsley
• ½ tbsp wholegrain mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Carrots

• 1kg baby carrots
• 3 tbsp water (for microwaving)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the herb butter: In a bowl, mash together the softened butter with the finely chopped tarragon, parsley, wholegrain mustard, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined. Cover and chill the herb butter until needed; it can be made up to three days in advance.
2. Prepare the carrots: Trim off the long green tops from the baby carrots. Wash them thoroughly under cold running water, using a clean scourer to remove any dirt. Halve the carrots lengthwise to ensure even cooking and uniform size.
3. Cook the carrots: Place the halved baby carrots in a large microwave-safe bowl and add 3 tablespoons of water. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or lid. Microwave on full power for 8-10 minutes, or until the carrots are just tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Combine and serve: Drain any excess water from the cooked carrots. While still warm, toss them with the prepared herb butter until evenly coated. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and silky texture.

Notes

• If you do not have a microwave, you can steam the carrots for 10-12 minutes until tender, then toss with the herb butter in a warm serving bowl.
• The herb butter can be prepared up to three days ahead and stored in the refrigerator to save time.
• Ensure the carrots are halved lengthwise to promote even cooking.
• To adjust seasoning, taste the herb butter before combining with the carrots and add more salt, pepper, or mustard as preferred.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Microwaving
• Cuisine: International

Keywords: baby carrots, herb butter, tarragon, parsley, wholegrain mustard, microwave side dish, easy vegetable recipe