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I still remember the first time I tried carrot fries. I was at a little health food cafe, kinda skeptical, if i'm being honest. But oh. my. goodness! They were so good! Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and that slight sweetness from the carrots? Ugh! Heaven. And when dipped in a creamy, cool avocado ranch? Perfection. So, of course, I had to try making them at home. And after a few tries (and a few slightly burnt batches, oops!), I think I've nailed it.
These carrot fries are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies. Plus, they're baked, not fried, so you can enjoy them without the added grease. The avocado ranch is super simple to whip up and adds a creamy, healthy twist to the classic ranch dressing. This recipe is kid-friendly, too. My little nephew, who usually turns his nose up at vegetables, devours these like there's no tomorrow!
Required Equipments
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Large bowl
Food processor or blender
Knife
Cutting board
Carrot Fries with Avocado Ranch: Frequently Asked Questions
Carrot Fries with Avocado Ranch
Craving a healthier alternative to traditional fries? These baked carrot fries with creamy avocado ranch dip are a delightful and nutritious snack or side dish. They're easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for satisfying your fry cravings guilt-free!
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:2 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the fries from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you'll thank me later!
Wash and scrub about 1 pound of large carrots. Peeling is optional, but I prefer to peel them for a smoother texture. Just give them a good scrub if you're skipping the peeling step.
Cut the carrots into fry shapes. Aim for about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness. Uniformity is key here! The more evenly sized your fries, the more evenly they'll cook.
In a large bowl, toss the carrot fries with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure the fries are evenly coated with the spices. Get in there with your hands for best results!
Spread the carrot fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the fries instead of baking them to crispy perfection. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are tender and slightly browned. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. You want them crispy, not burnt!
While the fries are baking, prepare the avocado ranch. In a food processor or blender, combine 1 ripe avocado, 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt (or vegan sour cream for a dairy-free option), 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro, 1 clove of garlic (minced), 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Blend until smooth and creamy. Add a tablespoon of water at a time if needed to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Some people like a little more lime, other people like a little more cilantro.
Once the carrot fries are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve immediately with the avocado ranch for dipping. Enjoy!
Optional: For an extra crispy texture, try broiling the fries for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning. And if you're feeling fancy, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the fries and ranch before serving.
📝 Notes
For extra crispy fries, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture for a little heat.
Vegan? Substitute the greek yougurt for vegan sour cream!
The kitchen is my happy place, where simple ingredients transform into joyful creations. Don't be afraid to experiment and add a little love to every dish!