Air Fryer Carrots with Pesto Butter Recipe
Introduction
Air fryer carrots are a quick and flavorful side dish that’s both tender and slightly crisp. Coated with a delightful pesto butter, they make an easy addition to any meal. This recipe highlights natural sweetness with a savory twist.
Ingredients
- ½ pound carrots (peeled and stem removed)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon prepared pesto sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the air fryer to 325°F.
- Step 2: Cut the carrots into ½ inch slices. Toss the carrot slices in olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Place the carrots directly into the air fryer basket.
- Step 3: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking or tossing the carrots halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
- Step 4: While the carrots cook, mix together the melted butter and prepared pesto sauce.
- Step 5: When the carrots are done, toss them in the pesto butter mixture and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese after tossing the carrots in pesto butter for extra flavor.
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of pesto for a different aromatic twist.
- Cut carrots into sticks instead of slices for a different texture and presentation.
- If you prefer sweeter carrots, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup before air frying.
Storage
Store leftover air fryer carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave to retain their texture. They are best enjoyed fresh for optimal crispness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen carrots in this recipe?
Frozen carrots can be used, but they may release extra moisture and become softer. It’s best to pat them dry before seasoning and air frying to achieve a better texture.
What if I don’t have pesto sauce?
If you don’t have pesto, you can substitute with a mix of fresh basil and garlic blended with olive oil, or simply toss the carrots in melted butter with a pinch of dried herbs for similar flavor enhancement.
PrintAir Fryer Carrots with Pesto Butter Recipe
This delicious Air Fryer Carrots recipe features tender carrot slices cooked to perfection in an air fryer, tossed with a flavorful blend of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then finished with a rich butter and pesto sauce. A quick and easy side dish that perfectly balances roasted flavor with fresh herbaceous notes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Carrots
- ½ pound carrots (peeled and stem removed)
Seasoning
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Butter Pesto Sauce
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon prepared pesto sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 325°F and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the carrots: Cut the peeled carrots into ½ inch slices. In a bowl, toss the carrot slices with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Air fry the carrots: Place the seasoned carrot slices directly into the air fryer basket. Cook them for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking or tossing the carrots halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
- Make the butter pesto sauce: While the carrots cook, combine the melted unsalted butter and prepared pesto sauce in a small bowl and mix well.
- Toss and serve: Once the carrots are tender and cooked through, remove them from the air fryer and toss immediately with the butter pesto sauce. Serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Peeling the carrots ensures a smoother texture and better flavor absorption.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
- For a nuttier flavor, try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese after tossing with the pesto butter.
- If you don’t have prepared pesto, store-bought basil pesto or your favorite herb-based sauce can be used.
- Shaking the basket halfway through cooking helps the carrots cook evenly and develop a slight caramelization.
Keywords: Air Fryer Carrots, Pesto Carrots, Easy Side Dish, Air Fryer Vegetables, Healthy Carrot Recipe
