Thyme Aioli Roasted Carrots

Name: Thyme Aioli Roasted Carrots
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love the combination of earthy carrots and the aromatic touch of thyme aioli in this recipe. Roasting the carrots brings out their natural sweetness, while the creamy aioli elevates the dish with rich, savory flavors. This delightful side dish pairs beautifully with any protein and looks stunning on the plate. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, these Thyme Aioli Roasted Carrots are bound to impress and satisfy. I promise you, they will become a staple in your kitchen for that touch of elegance.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:18:28.306Z

Making these Thyme Aioli Roasted Carrots was not only a fun experience but also a delicious adventure! I started by selecting vibrant, fresh carrots and decided to create my homemade aioli infused with thyme. The roasting process allowed the carrots to caramelize, enhancing their natural sweetness, while the aioli added a creamy texture that was simply irresistible.

The trick is to roast the carrots until they are tender yet slightly crispy on the outside. I found that tossing them in the aioli while still warm allowed the flavors to meld beautifully. It's a simple technique that brings professional results to your dinner table!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Earthy sweetness of roasted carrots enhanced by creamy aioli
Fresh thyme adds a fragrant herbal note
Easily adaptable for any meal or occasion

      

The Role of Thyme in Aioli

Thyme is a powerful herb that brings depth and aroma to dishes, and in this recipe, it’s the star of the show. The fresh thyme not only enhances the aioli’s flavor but also complements the earthy sweetness of the roasted carrots. When using thyme, I recommend stripping the leaves from the stems to avoid any tough bits that can detract from the creamy texture. Combining it with the garlic and mayonnaise creates a balanced aioli that’s fragrant and savory, ensuring every bite of carrot is a delight.

For those who may not have fresh thyme on hand, dried thyme can be a suitable substitute, though you should adjust the quantity down to about one-third of fresh. Dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so this swap helps maintain the intended taste profile. However, if you're using dried thyme, consider letting it rehydrate in the aioli mix for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Perfectly Roasted Carrots

Roasting brings out the natural sugars in carrots, making them sweet and caramelized. It's crucial to cut them into uniform sticks, about 1/2-inch thick, to ensure even cooking. If the pieces are too large, they may remain crunchy rather than tender. When you spread the carrots on the baking sheet, avoid overcrowding them; they need space to roast properly, achieving that desirable golden color and slightly crisp edges. If they touch, they'll steam instead of roast, so use two trays if necessary.

Keep an eye on the carrots toward the end of the roasting time. Ideally, they should be fork-tender and exhibit slight char spots for a deeper flavor. For extra flair, you can sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper before roasting to add a hint of smokiness, which pairs beautifully with the aioli. Just be careful with the quantity, as you want to enhance rather than overpower the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a perfect batch of Thyme Aioli Roasted Carrots:

Ingredients

1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious Thyme Aioli Roasted Carrots:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure the carrots roast evenly.

Prepare Carrots

Toss the carrot sticks with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Make sure they're evenly coated.

Roast Carrots

Spread the carrot sticks on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Make the Aioli

While the carrots are roasting, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, chopped thyme, and lemon juice in a small bowl until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Once the carrots are done, toss them in the thyme aioli while they are still warm. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Your Thyme Aioli Roasted Carrots are ready to savor!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the aioli for some heat!

Storage and Reheating

These Thyme Aioli Roasted Carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it’s best to keep the aioli separate until you're ready to serve, as combining the two can cause the carrots to lose their crispness. When reheating, use a skillet or an oven rather than a microwave to preserve their texture. Heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and start to re-crisp when tossed in a bit more olive oil.

If you want to prepare the carrots ahead of time, you can roast them in advance and place them in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, just whisk up the aioli and toss it with the reheated carrots for a fresh finish.

Serving Suggestions

These roasted carrots pair wonderfully with a variety of proteins like grilled chicken, pan-seared fish, or a hearty steak. Their elegant appearance and rich flavors make them a suitable choice for special occasions like holidays or dinner parties. You can serve them directly on a platter drizzled with any remaining aioli for added presentation and flavor. I also love to garnish with a few extra thyme leaves or toasted nuts for a delightful crunch.

For a vegetarian twist, try serving them over a bed of quinoa or couscous mixed with your choice of roasted or fresh vegetables. The versatility of this dish means you can adapt it based on seasonal ingredients or whatever you have on hand, making it both refreshing and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of carrots?

Absolutely! This aioli works well with potatoes, zucchini, or even asparagus.

→ How long can I store leftover aioli?

You can store the aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is it possible to make aioli without eggs?

Yes! This recipe uses mayonnaise as a base, making it egg-free.

→ Can I prepare the aioli in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the aioli a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.