Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes and Carrots recipe offers a perfect balance of crispy, golden potatoes and tender, flavorful carrots, infused with aromatic herbs and olive oil, making it an irresistible and fuss-free side dish for any meal.
What Is Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes And Carrots
Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes and Carrots is a hearty and delicious side dish that features crispy, golden-brown potatoes and perfectly roasted carrots. The recipe relies on simple yet effective ingredients like fresh rosemary, garlic, and olive oil, creating a medley of flavors that complement any main course.
Jamie Oliver’s twist lies in his technique of roasting at the right temperature, ensuring that the vegetables are both crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. This dish is easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy.
Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes And Carrots Recipe
Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes and Carrots, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes (preferably Maris Piper or Yukon Gold for their fluffy texture)
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3-4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (or thyme, depending on preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: A pinch of chili flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice for added zest
These ingredients combine to create a simple yet wonderfully flavorful side dish, perfect for roasts, barbecues, or as part of a cozy weeknight dinner.
Equipment Needed
To prepare this tasty dish, you will need the following kitchen equipment:
- Roasting tray or baking sheet – A large enough tray to spread the vegetables out evenly for even roasting.
- Sharp knife – For chopping the vegetables and garlic.
- Chopping board – A stable surface for cutting the vegetables.
- Spoon or spatula – To toss the potatoes and carrots in the olive oil and seasonings.
- Oven – Preheated to 200°C (fan) or 220°C (conventional) for crisping the vegetables to perfection.
With these basic kitchen tools, you can easily whip up a batch of these delicious roast potatoes and carrots.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes And Carrots?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes and Carrots:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan) or 220°C (conventional). You want the oven hot to ensure crispy results.
- Prepare the vegetables: Peel and chop the potatoes into even-sized chunks. Peel and cut the carrots into similarly sized pieces. Smash the garlic cloves with the flat of your knife to release the oils and flavor.
- Toss the vegetables: In a large bowl, add the potatoes, carrots, and smashed garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and toss everything together until the vegetables are well-coated.
- Season the vegetables: Add salt, pepper, and your rosemary (or thyme), and toss again to ensure everything is evenly seasoned.
- Roast: Spread the seasoned vegetables out in an even layer on a roasting tray. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow them to crisp up. Roast for about 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the carrots are tender.
- Serve: Once done, give the vegetables a final toss, and optionally drizzle with lemon juice for a fresh, zesty finish. Serve hot as the perfect side dish.
Expert Tips
To elevate Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes and Carrots even further, here are a few expert tips:
- Double roasting: For extra crispy potatoes, parboil them for 5-7 minutes before roasting. This helps break up the surface of the potato, allowing more crispiness.
- Use the right potatoes: Maris Piper or Yukon Gold are excellent choices due to their fluffy insides, but feel free to experiment with other varieties based on your texture preferences.
- Herb variety: While rosemary is a classic pairing with roasted vegetables, consider experimenting with thyme, sage, or even a little oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: For optimal crispiness, ensure the potatoes and carrots aren’t stacked on top of each other. Give them enough space to crisp up evenly.
- Add garlic at the right time: If you prefer a more delicate garlic flavor, add the garlic halfway through the roasting process. This will prevent it from becoming too burnt or bitter.
Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes and Carrots recipe is a surefire way to create a side dish that’s not only simple and quick to make, but also bursting with flavor. The combination of crispy potatoes and tender carrots, seasoned with garlic and fresh herbs, makes for an incredibly satisfying addition to any meal.
Whether you’re preparing a Sunday roast, a holiday dinner, or just looking for a comforting side, this dish is bound to be a hit. Plus, with the added flexibility in seasoning and preparation, it’s easy to customize to your tastes. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe for a truly irresistible vegetable side dish.
Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes And Carrots

Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes and Carrots are already a winning combination on their own, but what’s fantastic about this dish is the potential for variation. Whether you’re looking to add a twist to the flavor profile, experiment with different textures, or simply make it your own, here are some easy recipe variations you can try:
- Herb Infusion: For a more aromatic flavor, you can infuse your roast potatoes and carrots with fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or sage. You can either chop these herbs finely and sprinkle them over the vegetables before roasting, or tie them into a bundle (called a bouquet garni) and roast them alongside the vegetables for a more subtle infusion.
- Garlic and Parmesan: Add crushed garlic and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory flavor. Simply crush some garlic cloves and scatter them over the potatoes and carrots before roasting, and halfway through cooking, sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan on top. The cheese will melt, creating a crispy, golden crust that’s irresistibly delicious.
- Balsamic Glaze: If you want to add a bit of tangy sweetness, drizzle a balsamic vinegar glaze over your roasted vegetables in the final 10 minutes of cooking. The sweetness from the balsamic will caramelize with the veggies, giving them a beautifully balanced flavor.
- Spicy Kick with Paprika: For a little heat, sprinkle some paprika (or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor) over the vegetables. If you want it to be even spicier, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to give it a fiery punch. This variation brings a nice contrast to the natural sweetness of the carrots.
- Honey and Mustard Glaze: Combine honey and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy glaze that can be brushed over the vegetables before roasting. The honey caramelizes during the roasting process, and the mustard adds a zesty kick that complements the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- Maple and Bacon: A decadent variation is adding crispy bacon and a drizzle of maple syrup. Chop the bacon into small pieces and cook it until crispy, then add it to the potatoes and carrots for the final 15 minutes of roasting. The maple syrup adds a sweet contrast to the salty bacon, creating a mouth-watering dish.
These variations can easily be customized based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re craving. The key is to balance sweet, savory, and acidic notes to create a well-rounded flavor profile. Have fun with it, and don’t be afraid to experiment!
Best Practices To Store Leftovers
Storing leftovers properly ensures that your delicious roast potatoes and carrots remain fresh for future meals without losing their texture and flavor. Here are some tips for the best results:
- Cool Before Storing: Always allow the roast potatoes and carrots to cool to room temperature before storing them. This prevents condensation, which can make the vegetables soggy. It also reduces the risk of bacteria growth.
- Airtight Containers: Store your leftovers in an airtight container. This will help preserve the freshness of the vegetables and prevent them from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
- Refrigeration: Roast potatoes and carrots can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure that the container is properly sealed to maintain their texture and flavor.
- Reheating Tips: When reheating, it’s important to re-crisp the potatoes and carrots for the best texture. You can do this by reheating them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again. If you don’t have time to use the oven, a quick stir-fry in a hot pan with a little oil can also bring back some crispness.
- Freezing (Optional): While it’s not ideal to freeze roasted potatoes and carrots, it can be done if you need to store them for a longer period. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can last for up to 2 months. When reheating, you’ll likely need to roast them in the oven for a bit longer than usual to get them back to their crispy state.
What Goes Well With Roast Potatoes And Carrots?
Roast potatoes and carrots are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of dishes. Here are some fantastic pairings to complete your meal:
- Roast Chicken: A classic pairing with roast potatoes and carrots is roast chicken. The savory flavors of the chicken, combined with the crispy potatoes and tender carrots, create a balanced and comforting meal.
- Grilled Steak: The robust flavors of a grilled steak pair beautifully with the sweetness of roasted carrots and the earthiness of the potatoes. You can also serve with a rich steak sauce like peppercorn or chimichurri to elevate the dish.
- Vegetarian Options: For a vegetarian option, pair your roasted vegetables with a hearty grain like quinoa or couscous. A dollop of hummus or a sprinkle of feta cheese also makes for a delicious complement.
- Roast Lamb: The rich flavor of roast lamb is another excellent match for roasted potatoes and carrots. Add a mint sauce or rosemary and garlic rub to the lamb for added flavor.
- Gravy or Sauce: Pairing roast potatoes and carrots with a flavorful gravy or sauce can elevate the meal even further. A rich, meaty gravy (such as beef or chicken) is a classic, or you can serve with a tangy mustard or horseradish sauce for an added zing.
- Salad: To balance out the richness of the roasted vegetables, consider serving a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette. A simple green salad with mixed lettuce, arugula, or spinach can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory potatoes and carrots.
- Crispy Duck: If you’re feeling fancy, crispy duck pairs wonderfully with roast potatoes and carrots. The rich, fatty duck skin complements the roasted veggies, creating an indulgent meal.
Conclusion
Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes and Carrots is a dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations like garlic and Parmesan, honey and mustard, or balsamic glaze, there’s always room for creativity.
Properly storing leftovers ensures you can enjoy the dish for a few more days, and with the right storage practices, your roast potatoes and carrots will retain their deliciousness. And when it comes to pairings, this dish is incredibly versatile and works well with a variety of proteins, grains, and sauces, allowing you to create meals that satisfy every palate.
At its heart, roast potatoes and carrots are a celebration of simple ingredients that, when treated with care, bring out the best in each other. Whether you’re preparing them for a special dinner or as part of a weeknight meal, they’re a dish that’s sure to please and satisfy!
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes And Carrots Recipe?
The key ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s roast potatoes and carrots recipe include potatoes, carrots, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, sea salt, black pepper, and a touch of lemon for added flavor.
How Do You Prepare The Potatoes For Roasting In Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?
For Jamie Oliver’s roast potatoes, peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks. Parboil the potatoes in salted water for about 10 minutes until slightly soft, then drain and shake them in the pot to roughen up the edges before roasting.
Can I Use Other Vegetables Along With The Carrots And Potatoes In This Recipe?
Yes, you can easily add other root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or turnips to Jamie Oliver’s roast potatoes and carrots recipe. Just make sure to adjust the roasting time accordingly based on the size and type of vegetables.
What Is The Ideal Roasting Time And Temperature For Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes And Carrots?
The ideal roasting time is about 40-45 minutes at a temperature of 200°C (400°F). Ensure that the potatoes and carrots are golden and crispy by turning them halfway through the roasting process.
Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes And Carrots Recipe In Advance?
Yes, you can parboil and prepare the potatoes and carrots ahead of time, and then roast them when you’re ready. Alternatively, you can roast them in advance and reheat them in a hot oven to bring them back to their crispy texture.
What Type Of Oil Should I Use For Roasting The Potatoes And Carrots?
Jamie Oliver recommends using olive oil for roasting, as it adds flavor and helps create a crispy texture. You can use extra virgin olive oil for a more robust flavor or regular olive oil for a milder taste.
How Do I Make Sure The Roast Potatoes Get Crispy Like Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?
To get crispy potatoes, make sure to shake the parboiled potatoes in the pot to roughen up the edges. Also, ensure that they are spaced out on the roasting tray and not overcrowded, which allows the hot air to circulate and crisp them up.
Can I Use Pre-cut Or Frozen Potatoes And Carrots For This Recipe?
While fresh vegetables yield the best results, you can use pre-cut or frozen potatoes and carrots if needed. Just make sure to adjust cooking times, as frozen vegetables may take longer to cook and crisp up.
What Herbs And Seasonings Should I Use For Extra Flavor In This Recipe?
In addition to rosemary, you can add thyme or sage for a variation in flavor. Garlic, sea salt, and black pepper are essential to enhance the taste, and a squeeze of lemon at the end adds a zesty finish.
What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Roast Potatoes And Carrots?
These roast potatoes and carrots make a perfect side dish for roasted meats such as chicken, beef, or lamb. They also go well with vegetarian dishes like roasted vegetables or a hearty salad.