Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan Recipe

  • June 15, 2025

Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted parsnips with the salty, nutty flavor of Parmesan, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes-ideal for any dinner table, especially as a side dish to elevate a meal.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan

Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that highlights the earthiness of parsnips. The parsnips are roasted until golden and tender, then sprinkled with Parmesan cheese, which melts slightly and crisps up on the edges, adding a savory finish.

It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to incorporate more vegetables into their meals while indulging in rich, umami flavors. This dish is not only a great way to enjoy parsnips but also offers a sophisticated twist that can easily complement various main dishes, from roast meats to vegetarian options.

Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan Recipe

Ingredients Needed

jamie oliver roast parsnips with parmesan

To make Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan, you will need the following ingredients:

  1. Parsnips – About 1 pound (or as much as you need), peeled and cut into even-sized chunks or sticks.
  2. Olive Oil – For roasting and bringing out the flavors of the parsnips.
  3. Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated for the best flavor and texture.
  4. Fresh Thyme (optional) – Adds a lovely herby note to the dish.
  5. Salt and Pepper – To season to taste.
  6. Lemon Zest (optional) – A hint of citrus for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the roasted parsnips and Parmesan.
  7. Garlic (optional) – Minced or whole cloves to infuse the oil with a delightful aromatic flavor.

Equipment Needed

For this dish, the equipment you’ll need is minimal, making it a simple and straightforward recipe to prepare:

  1. Baking Sheet or Roasting Tray – To spread the parsnips in a single layer for even roasting.
  2. Sharp Knife – For peeling and chopping the parsnips.
  3. Grater – For grating the Parmesan cheese fresh.
  4. Large Mixing Bowl – To toss the parsnips in olive oil and seasonings before roasting.
  5. Tongs or a Spoon – To turn the parsnips halfway through cooking for an even roast.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan?

Here’s how to prepare this dish:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Parsnips: Peel the parsnips and cut them into even-sized sticks or chunks. The size should be uniform to ensure even cooking.
  3. Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, toss the parsnips with a good drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme (if using). You want the parsnips to be well-coated but not drenched in oil.
  4. Spread on a Baking Sheet: Lay the parsnips out on a baking sheet or roasting tray in a single layer. This will allow them to crisp up nicely in the oven.
  5. Roast: Roast the parsnips for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden and tender. About halfway through, use tongs or a spoon to turn them over to ensure they roast evenly.
  6. Add Parmesan: Once the parsnips are roasted, remove them from the oven. Immediately sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan while the parsnips are still hot so the cheese melts and sticks to the edges.
  7. Finish with Lemon Zest and Serve (optional): If you like, finish with a little lemon zest to give the dish a fresh and vibrant contrast to the richness of the parsnips and cheese.
  8. Serve: Enjoy these Parmesan-dusted roasted parsnips as a side dish to your favorite main course.

Expert Tips

  • Consistency is Key: When cutting your parsnips, aim for uniform pieces. This ensures that all pieces cook at the same rate and achieve the same level of crispness.
  • Don’t Skip the Turning: Make sure to turn the parsnips halfway through roasting. This helps achieve an even golden color and crispiness on all sides.
  • Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best results, use fresh Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a more intense flavor.
  • Roast with Garlic: For an extra layer of flavor, you can roast a few garlic cloves alongside the parsnips. This will infuse the oil with garlic flavor and give the dish a savory boost.
  • Opt for High Heat: The high roasting temperature helps to caramelize the natural sugars in the parsnips, giving them a rich, roasted flavor. If the temperature is too low, they might become soggy rather than crispy.

Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan is a simple yet flavorful dish that takes advantage of the natural sweetness of parsnips and enhances it with the rich, nutty flavors of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re looking for a new vegetable side dish or want to impress your guests with something a little more refined, this recipe is a great choice. It’s easy to make, requires only a handful of ingredients, and delivers a mouthwatering result that will elevate any meal.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan

jamie oliver roast parsnips with parmesan

Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips with Parmesan is a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and crispy textures. The simple yet flavorful dish can be easily adapted for various tastes or dietary preferences, making it versatile for all kinds of meals. Here are some easy variations to elevate your parsnips:

  1. Herb Infusion:
    Add extra layers of flavor by infusing the parsnips with fresh herbs. Rosemary, thyme, or sage work wonderfully with the earthy flavor of parsnips. Toss the vegetables in olive oil with finely chopped herbs before roasting for a fragrant and aromatic touch. You can also experiment with dried herbs if fresh options aren’t available.

  2. Spicy Kick:
    For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle chili flakes or smoked paprika over the parsnips before roasting. The smoky paprika complements the Parmesan and adds depth to the dish. You could also try adding a touch of cayenne pepper for a bolder kick or a dash of curry powder for an intriguing twist.

  3. Honey Glaze:
    If you like a sweet contrast to the savory flavor of parsnips, drizzle them with a little honey or maple syrup before roasting. This creates a caramelized effect that enhances the natural sweetness of the parsnips. A slight drizzle of balsamic vinegar can also provide a delightful tangy balance to the sweetness.

  4. Garlic Lovers:
    Garlic adds an irresistible aroma and flavor to any roasted vegetable. Crush a few cloves and toss them with the parsnips and olive oil. If you want a more intense garlic flavor, roast the garlic alongside the parsnips and mash it into a paste to toss with the vegetables once they’re cooked.

  5. Cheese Variations:
    While Parmesan is the star of this dish, other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can bring a different nuance. For a more indulgent version, mix in a bit of mozzarella or Gruyère for extra meltiness, especially if you want a richer, cheesier experience.

  6. Vegan Version:
    If you’re following a plant-based diet, you can substitute the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast. The nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, umami flavor while keeping the dish vegan-friendly.

These variations allow you to play around with the flavor profile of the dish depending on what you have in your pantry or your personal taste preferences.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers of Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips with Parmesan correctly is key to maintaining their taste and texture. Here’s how to store them properly:

  1. Cool Down First:
    Allow the roasted parsnips to cool to room temperature before storing them. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can cause the parsnips to become soggy.

  2. Airtight Container:
    Place the leftover parsnips in an airtight container to retain their flavor and keep them fresh. Make sure the container is sealed well to prevent moisture loss or absorption of other odors in the fridge.

  3. Refrigeration:
    Store the parsnips in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The longer they sit, the less crispy they will become, so it’s best to consume them sooner for the best texture.

  4. Freezing:
    If you want to store them for a longer period, freezing is an option. Spread the roasted parsnips on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for a few hours until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crispy.

  5. Reheating:
    To preserve the crispiness of the roast parsnips when reheating, it’s best to use the oven. Spread the leftovers on a baking sheet and reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes. This will help them regain some of their crispiness. Alternatively, you can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil to crisp them up.

By following these storage practices, you can enjoy your leftover parsnips without sacrificing their flavor or texture.

What Goes Well With Roast Parsnips With Parmesan?

Roast parsnips with Parmesan are incredibly versatile and can complement a wide range of dishes, making them an excellent side dish for various meals. Here are a few pairing ideas to elevate your meal:

  1. Roast Meats:
    The richness and earthy flavor of roast parsnips pair beautifully with roasted meats, especially pork, lamb, or beef. The salty, umami notes of Parmesan bring out the depth in the roasted meat, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.

  2. Grilled Chicken or Turkey:
    The savory and crispy nature of the parsnips balances the mild flavor of grilled or roasted poultry. Whether it’s a simple grilled chicken breast or a succulent roast turkey, parsnips add a delightful contrast to the protein.

  3. Vegetarian Main Dishes:
    For a vegetarian meal, pair roast parsnips with dishes like vegetable casseroles, lentil stews, or hearty grain salads (such as quinoa or farro). The earthy sweetness of parsnips works well with the textures and flavors of these dishes.

  4. A Green Salad:
    A light, fresh salad can create a nice contrast with the roasted, savory parsnips. A mix of peppery arugula, spinach, and mixed greens with a lemony dressing would provide brightness and acidity, balancing the rich flavors of the parsnips.

  5. Risotto:
    Creamy risottos, especially those made with mushrooms, butternut squash, or peas, can pair wonderfully with roast parsnips. The smoothness of the risotto complements the crispness and texture of the parsnips, making it an indulgent and satisfying combination.

  6. Cheese Platter:
    Since the parsnips are already seasoned with Parmesan, they can be part of a cheese platter. Pair them with a selection of other cheeses like Brie, aged Gouda, or blue cheese for a savory spread that will impress guests.

  7. Dips and Sauces:
    For an extra layer of flavor, consider serving roasted parsnips with a dip or sauce. A creamy garlic aioli, balsamic glaze, or a tangy yogurt-based sauce can enhance the parsnips and add variety to your meal.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips with Parmesan is a deliciously simple yet sophisticated dish that can be tailored in a variety of ways to suit different tastes. From spicing them up with chili flakes to giving them a sweet glaze or even adapting them to a vegan version, the dish is full of potential for customization.

Storing and reheating leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy the dish beyond the initial meal, while the parsnips’ versatility means they pair wonderfully with a wide range of main courses. Whether you’re serving them alongside a roast dinner or incorporating them into a more plant-based meal, these parsnips are bound to become a favorite. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and creating your own variations!.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan?

The main ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s roast parsnips with parmesan are parsnips, olive oil, fresh rosemary, parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper. You can also use garlic for extra flavor.

How Do You Prepare The Parsnips For Roasting In Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?

To prepare the parsnips, peel them and then cut them into evenly sized pieces. You can either slice them into thick rounds or cut them into halves or quarters, depending on your preference.

What Is The Roasting Method For Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan?

In Jamie Oliver’s recipe, the parsnips are tossed with olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper before being roasted in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 35-40 minutes or until golden and tender.

When Do You Add The Parmesan Cheese To The Roast Parsnips?

You should add the parmesan cheese towards the end of the roasting process. Sprinkle the grated parmesan over the parsnips in the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow it to melt and form a crispy golden crust.

Can You Make Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the parsnips ahead of time by peeling and cutting them, then storing them in the fridge. You can also roast them in advance and reheat them when you’re ready to serve.

What Can I Substitute For Rosemary In Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips Recipe?

If you don’t have rosemary, you can substitute it with other herbs like thyme, sage, or oregano. Each herb will bring a slightly different flavor to the dish, but they all work well with roasted parsnips.

Can I Use A Different Cheese Instead Of Parmesan For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use other hard cheeses such as pecorino or grana padano instead of parmesan. These cheeses will provide a similar salty and umami flavor, though the texture and taste might vary slightly.

How Do You Ensure The Parsnips Are Crispy In Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips Recipe?

To get crispy parsnips, ensure they are spread out evenly on the baking tray with enough space between them. You can also toss them halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning and crispiness.

Can Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan Be Made Vegan?

Yes, you can make this dish vegan by omitting the parmesan or using a plant-based alternative such as vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.

What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan?

These roast parsnips make a great side dish and can be served with roasted meats, especially lamb, chicken, or beef. They also pair well with vegetarian dishes like risotto or a hearty salad.