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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
