As the seasons change, our kitchens often fill with a rainbow of frozen vegetables. And for good reason – they’re nutritious, easy to store, and can be used in a multitude of dishes. But let’s be real, when it comes to carrots, most of us tend to stick to the same old methods: steaming them until they’re mushy or using them in a bland old stew. Not today! We’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering frozen carrot recipes that will revolutionize the way you think about this humble root vegetable.
From creamy soups and savory stir-fries, to sweet treats like muffins and bread, these dishes showcase the versatility of frozen carrots. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and ingredients. So whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and healthy meal ideas, or a foodie searching for new inspiration, you’ve come to the right place.
Stay tuned for our top 20 recipes, each one featuring frozen carrots as the star of the show!
Creamy Frozen Carrot Soup
This recipe is a unique twist on traditional soups, utilizing frozen carrots to create a creamy and comforting soup perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen carrots
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine frozen carrots, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the mixture in a medium saucepan over low heat.
3. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, and ground cumin.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Frozen Carrot Medley
Roasted Frozen Carrot Medley Recipe
A sweet and savory roasted carrot medley recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick side or as a base for your favorite salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen mixed carrots (such as orange, yellow, and white)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Spread the frozen carrots on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the carrots, then sprinkle with honey, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Ginger Smoothie
Beat the heat with this refreshing and healthy smoothie that combines the sweetness of carrots with the spiciness of ginger. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen carrots
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or spiciness as needed.
3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Blend and enjoy!
Spicy Frozen Carrot Stir-Fry
A quick and spicy twist on a classic stir-fry, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep. Using frozen carrots and a blend of Asian-inspired spices, you’ll be amazed at how flavorful this dish is!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen carrots
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the frozen carrots and cook until thawed and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Potato Mash
This sweet and savory mash is a perfect side dish for your next meal. By freezing the mixture, you’ll retain the vibrant colors and textures of the carrots and potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, boil the chopped carrots and potatoes until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Drain the mixture and return it to the pot. Add butter, heavy cream or whole milk, salt, and any desired spices. Mash until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the mash into an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
5. Place the container in the freezer and store for up to 3 months.
Cooking Time: None (frozen), approximately 15-20 minutes to thaw at room temperature
Frozen Carrot and Lentil Curry
This recipe is a twist on traditional Indian curry, using frozen carrots and lentils to create a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce and subtle sweetness of the carrots make this dish a family-friendly favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen carrots
– 1/2 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the frozen carrots and lentils to the pan. Stir to combine with the spice mixture.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Apple Muffins
These sweet treats are perfect for a cold winter morning or as a healthy snack any time of the year. Made with frozen carrots and apples, they’re a delicious way to incorporate more fruits and veggies into your diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup frozen carrots, thawed and grated
– 1/2 cup diced apple (about 1 medium-sized)
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, grated carrots, and diced apple. Stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Coconut Rice
This refreshing side dish is perfect for a hot summer day. Sweet frozen carrots add natural sweetness to this flavorful coconut-infused rice, making it a great accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup frozen carrots, thawed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
3. While the rice is cooking, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and slightly caramelized (about 5 minutes).
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then stir in the shredded coconut and cooked carrot mixture. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Chickpea Stew
Beat the heat with this vibrant and nutritious stew that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Made with frozen carrots, chickpeas, and aromatic spices, it’s a flavorful and healthy meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen carrots
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium pot, combine the frozen carrots, chickpeas, vegetable broth, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Raisin Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this frozen carrot and raisin recipe is perfect for a light and healthy snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1/2 cup golden raisins
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your freezer to its lowest setting.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots and golden raisins.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Pour the honey-lemon mixture over the carrot-raisin mixture and toss until the carrots are evenly coated.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for at least 30 minutes or until the salad has reached your desired level of frozen.
6. Remove from the freezer and season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Pea Pilaf
This pilaf is a delightful twist on traditional rice dishes, featuring frozen carrots and peas that add natural sweetness and color. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup frozen mixed carrots and peas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the frozen carrots and peas; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and combine with the carrot-pea mixture.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Spinach Pasta
A creamy and nutritious pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe uses frozen carrots and spinach to add pops of color and flavor to your plate.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup frozen carrot chunks
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add frozen carrot chunks and cook until thawed and tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add frozen spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Combine cooked pasta, carrot-spinach mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Corn Fritters
Enjoy a sweet and savory twist on traditional fritters with this recipe that combines frozen carrots, corn, and spices. Perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen carrot and corn mix, thawed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine carrot and corn mix, flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the beaten egg and stir until just combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with honey or maple syrup if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a refreshing twist on traditional oatmeal by incorporating frozen carrots and cinnamon. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1/2 cup frozen grated carrot
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: sweetener to taste (e.g., sugar, honey, maple syrup)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, frozen carrot, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until the oats are well coated.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the carrot is fully thawed.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Walnut Bread
Transform your bread game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the earthy flavor of walnuts. Perfect for a snack or as a side to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup frozen grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and frozen carrots. Stir until combined.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool on a wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Turmeric Latte
Brighten up your day with this unique and revitalizing latte, featuring the natural sweetness of carrots and the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric. This frozen treat is perfect for a warm weather pick-me-up or as a soothing afternoon drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium carrots
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Peel the carrots and blend them with 1/2 inch of water until smooth.
2. Add the turmeric, coconut milk, and honey (if using) to the blender. Blend until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray.
4. Freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Scoop the frozen latte into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Just freeze and enjoy.
Frozen Carrot and Quinoa Bowl
This refreshing bowl is a perfect way to use up frozen carrots and cook quinoa without heating up your kitchen. With the addition of crunchy walnuts and tangy feta, this dish is a great source of protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup frozen carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Thaw frozen carrots by leaving them at room temperature for a few hours or by microwaving them for 30 seconds.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, thawed carrots, parsley, olive oil, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top the quinoa mixture with crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus cooking time for quinoa)
Frozen Carrot and Garlic Hummus
Transform your hummus game with this refreshing twist! This frozen carrot and garlic hummus is perfect for hot summer days or as a unique dip for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup frozen carrots, thawed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, carrots, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you are.
Frozen Carrot and Parsley Pesto
Transform your taste buds with this refreshing and vibrant pesto, made with frozen carrots and parsley. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen carrots
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine frozen carrots, parsley leaves, garlic, salt, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (including prep)
Tips:
– Use frozen carrots for a vibrant orange color and sweet flavor.
– Adjust garlic to taste; you can also omit it if you’re not a fan of strong flavors.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Frozen Carrot and Maple Glazed Roast
Transform your roast into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this unique recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the richness of maple syrup. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) beef roast
– 1 cup frozen carrots, thawed
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together thawed carrots, maple syrup, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
3. Place the beef roast in a roasting pan and brush with half of the carrot mixture.
4. Roast for 30 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the roast reaches desired doneness.
6. Brush the remaining carrot mixture over the roast during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Summary
Discover the versatility of frozen carrots with these 20 easy and delicious recipes! From creamy soups to sweet treats, you’ll find a multitude of ways to enjoy this nutritious ingredient. Try roasting frozen carrots for a tasty medley or blending them into a refreshing smoothie. You can even use them in hearty stews, curries, and stir-fries. Plus, get creative with carrot-based desserts like muffins and fritters. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a satisfying meal, this collection of recipes has got you covered!
