These Za'atar Seasoned Grilled Carrots are a simple yet flavor-packed side dish featuring tender-crisp carrots marinated in olive oil, garlic, lemon, tomato paste, and aromatic za'atar seasoning before being lightly charred on the grill. Perfect alongside grilled meats, Mediterranean-inspired meals, or as part of a vegetarian spread.
Course Side Dish, vegetable
Cuisine Mediterranean, Middle Eastern-inspired
Diet Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Keyword carrot side dish, grilled carrots, grilled vegetable recipe, Mediterranean side dish, summer grilling recipes, za'atar carrots
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time 10 minutesminutes
Marinating Time 1 hourhour
Total Time 1 hourhour25 minutesminutes
Servings 4
Calories 156kcal
Author angela@mealstreetkitchen
Equipment
Vegetable peeler
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Steamer basket or steamer pan
mixing bowl
Whisk
Grill (or grill pan)
Tongs
Ingredients
For the Carrots
8large organic carrotspeeled, washed, trimmed, and cut in half lengthwise
For the Marinade
3tablespoonsgood-quality extra virgin olive oil
2teaspoonsfresh garlicminced
1½teaspoonsza'atar seasoning
¼teaspoonkosher salt
¼teaspoonfreshly ground black pepper
1teaspoonfresh lemon juice
1teaspoonorganic 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.