Garlic Parmesan Carrot Fries
These Garlic Parmesan Carrot Fries for Toddlers are an easy baked snack or side dish made with tender carrot sticks, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. They have naturally sweet flavor, lightly golden edges, and a soft texture that makes them suitable for toddler-friendly family meals.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh carrots washed, peeled, and cut into fry-shaped sticks.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- 1 small garlic clove finely minced, or ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese.
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley optional.
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning optional.
- A small pinch of black pepper optional and suitable for your child’s preferences.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper if desired.
- Wash and peel the carrots. Trim the ends, then cut the carrots into evenly sized sticks resembling fries.
- Pat the carrot sticks dry with a clean kitchen towel. This helps the oil and seasonings coat the carrots evenly.
- Place the carrot sticks in a large bowl. Add the olive oil, minced garlic or garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, Italian seasoning, and optional black pepper.
- Toss gently until the carrot sticks are evenly coated.
- Arrange the carrots on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Leave space between the pieces to prevent them from steaming.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, turning the carrot fries halfway through cooking, until they are tender and lightly golden around the edges.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the carrot fries to cool for several minutes.
- Test the texture before serving. The carrot fries should be soft enough to mash easily with a fork.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a toddler-friendly snack or vegetable side dish. Supervise toddlers while eating.
Notes
Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the carrot sticks and your oven.