If you think carrots are only meant for veggie trays and lunch boxes, these Za’atar Seasoned Grilled Carrots are about to change your mind. Tender carrots are lightly steamed, marinated in a savory blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon, tomato paste, and za’atar seasoning, then finished on the grill until perfectly charred.
The result? A simple vegetable side dish that’s smoky, flavorful, and completely irresistible.
These grilled carrots are one of those recipes that prove vegetables don’t have to be complicated to be delicious. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard cookout or looking for a fresh Mediterranean-inspired side dish, this recipe is one you’ll find yourself making again and again.
What is Za’atar?
Za’atar is a classic Middle Eastern spice blend that has become increasingly popular in home kitchens—and for good reason. It’s packed with savory, earthy flavor and works beautifully on everything from vegetables to chicken, fish, and breads.
While recipes vary by region and family tradition, za’atar typically contains:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sumac
- Thyme
- Oregano
- Marjoram
- Salt
The sumac adds a bright, citrusy note while the sesame seeds provide a subtle nuttiness. Together they create a seasoning blend that’s both complex and incredibly versatile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy enough for weeknight dinners
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free
- Packed with Mediterranean flavor
- Perfect for summer grilling
- Great served warm or at room temperature
- A delicious way to enjoy more vegetables
Ingredient Notes
Carrots
Large organic carrots work best because they hold up well during grilling. Rainbow carrots are also a beautiful option if you want extra color on the plate.
Za’atar Seasoning
The star ingredient of this recipe. If you’re new to za’atar, prepare to become a fan. The earthy herbs, tangy sumac, and toasted sesame seeds add incredible flavor with very little effort.
Tomato Paste
Just a small amount adds richness and depth to the marinade without overpowering the carrots.
Fresh Lemon Juice
Adds brightness and helps balance the earthy spices.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Use a good-quality olive oil since it forms the base of the marinade.
How to Make Za’atar Seasoned Grilled Carrots
Step 1: Steam the Carrots
Peel and wash the carrots. Trim the ends and slice them in half lengthwise.
Place the carrots in a steamer basket and cook until tender-crisp, about 5 to 6 minutes. You want them partially cooked but still firm enough to hold their shape on the grill.
Step 2: Marinate
Whisk together the olive oil, garlic, za’atar seasoning, lemon juice, tomato paste, salt, and pepper.
Transfer the warm carrots to a dish and pour the marinade over them. Toss gently to coat, then refrigerate for about an hour.
Step 3: Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Place the marinated carrots directly on the grill grates and cook for just a few minutes per side. Since the carrots are already partially cooked, you’re simply looking for beautiful grill marks and a little smoky char.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
A Few Kitchen Notes
- Don’t skip the steaming step. It helps ensure tender carrots without burning on the grill.
- Marinating while the carrots are still slightly warm helps them absorb more flavor.
- These carrots are wonderful served at room temperature, making them perfect for entertaining.
- The marinade works beautifully on zucchini, asparagus, cauliflower, bell peppers, and eggplant.
- For a little heat, add a pinch of Aleppo pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
What to Serve with Za’atar Grilled Carrots
These carrots pair beautifully with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes.
Some of my favorite pairings include:
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
- Grilled Corn and Heirloom Tomato Salad
- Chicken Kofta
- Grilled Lamb
- Lemon Herb Chicken
- Warm pita bread
- Falafel
I recently served these carrots alongside my Grilled Corn and Heirloom Tomato Salad and a bowl of Roasted Red Pepper Hummus. The smoky sweetness of the carrots paired perfectly with the fresh summer flavors of the salad, while the creamy hummus tied everything together. It made for a colorful Mediterranean-inspired meal that was simple, fresh, and absolutely delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. You can steam and marinate the carrots up to one day in advance. Grill them just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Absolutely. Roast at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking.
Za’atar has a savory, earthy flavor with bright citrus notes from the sumac and a subtle nuttiness from the sesame seeds.
You can, but whole carrots cut lengthwise provide the best texture and presentation.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Yes. This recipe is naturally vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
These Za’atar Seasoned Grilled Carrots are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. The combination of smoky char, bright lemon, savory garlic, and aromatic za’atar transforms humble carrots into a side dish worthy of center stage.
Whether you’re planning a summer cookout, building a Mediterranean mezze platter, or simply looking for a new way to enjoy vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Looking for other delicious veggie inspired recipes?
- Check out this Roasted Cauliflower Tabbouleh
- Lemon Basil Pasta Salad With English Peas
- Pasta Salad with Roasted Cauliflower, Chickpeas and Creamy Roasted Garlic Tahini Dressing
- Asian Cucumber Salad
Za’atar Seasoned Grilled Carrots
Equipment
- Vegetable peeler
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Steamer basket or steamer pan
- mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Grill (or grill pan)
- Tongs
Ingredients
For the Carrots
- 8 large organic carrots peeled, washed, trimmed, and cut in half lengthwise
For the Marinade
- 3 tablespoons good-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh garlic minced
- 1½ teaspoons za’atar seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon organic tomato paste
Instructions
Make the Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, za’atar seasoning, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and tomato paste until well combined.
Prepare the Carrots
- Peel and wash the carrots. Trim the ends and slice each carrot in half lengthwise.
- Place the carrots in a steamer basket or steamer pan and steam until tender-crisp, about 5–6 minutes.
- Transfer the warm carrots to a shallow dish or bowl.
- Pour the marinade over the carrots and toss gently to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.
Grill the Carrots
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Remove the carrots from the marinade and place them carefully on the hot grill.
- Grill for 2–3 minutes per side, or until lightly charred and grill marks appear.
- Remove from the grill and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Steaming the carrots before grilling ensures they become tender without burning on the grill.
- Rainbow carrots make a beautiful presentation if available.
- For a little heat, add a pinch of Aleppo pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- These carrots are delicious served with hummus, grilled chicken, lamb, or a fresh summer salad.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
This yummy marinade for Za’atar Seasoned Grilled Carrots is not exclusively for carrots. Try it on all of your grilled vegetables. You’ll be glad you did!
2 Comments
overthehillontheyellowbrickroad
July 30, 2020 at 9:22 amI love the carrot recipe but I’m not into grilling. Can I roast the carrots indoors in my oven? Will it taste as good? How would you change the instructions if I roast the carrots? Thanks! Cathi
angela@mealstreetkitchen
July 30, 2020 at 9:37 amI would recommend using a grill pan to get that nice char or putting them under the broiler for a few minutes on each side. For roasting in the oven, omit the steaming process, toss the raw carrots in the marinade, place in a single layer on parchment lined pan and roast at 425 degrees until tender/crisp.
So good to hear from you ???? I really miss reading your posts!