Lazy Cat Carrot with Harissa Sauce
This is a playful take on a simple, healthy Mediterranean dish where tender roasted or sautéed carrots are coated in a smoky, slightly spicy harissa sauce. “Lazy Cat” in the name reflects how effortless and quick it is to make, yet it’s packed with flavor. Perfect as a side dish or part of a mezze platter.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Ingredients
500 g (about 1 lb) carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp harissa paste (adjust to spice preference)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, to balance heat)
1 garlic clove, minced
Fresh parsley or coriander, chopped, for garnish
Optional: toasted sesame seeds for crunch
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven (if roasting):
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Prepare Carrots:
Toss the carrot sticks/rounds with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Roast Carrots:
Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Make Harissa Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine harissa paste, lemon juice, honey/maple syrup, and minced garlic. Mix well.
5. Coat Carrots:
Once carrots are roasted, transfer to a bowl and toss with the harissa sauce until evenly coated.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley/coriander and optional sesame seeds.
Serve warm as a side dish, appetizer, or part of a Mediterranean mezze platter.
Notes & Tips
Spice adjustment: Reduce or omit harissa for a milder version.
Quick stove-top version: Sauté carrots in olive oil until tender, then toss with harissa sauce.
Meal prep: Can be prepared in advance and reheated; add fresh herbs just before serving.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 2 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fat: 9 g
Fiber: 4 g