I’ve always been a fan of side dishes that can steal the show at a meal. Growing up, roast vegetables were a staple, but they didn’t always have that wow factor. One day, I stumbled upon Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips with Parmesan recipe, and it immediately became one of my go-to sides. There’s something magical about parsnips when they’re roasted – they get this perfect balance of sweetness and crispiness, and adding parmesan just takes them to another level.
The simplicity of this dish is part of what makes it so special. No complex techniques or rare ingredients. Just a few good-quality basics, and you’re left with a side dish that’s sure to impress at any dinner table. Let’s dive into how to make these parsnips, what makes the ingredients work so well together, and some ways you can switch it up if you’re feeling adventurous.
Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan Recipe
This recipe is classic Jamie Oliver – simple, fresh, and full of flavor. I love how he emphasizes letting the ingredients shine, rather than overcomplicating things. Here’s a breakdown of the dish.
- Sweet, earthy parsnips – Roasting brings out the natural sweetness, caramelizing them just right.
- Garlicky olive oil – You get the richness of olive oil with a burst of garlic flavor that soaks into the parsnips.
- Grated Parmesan – The salty, nutty kick from the parmesan adds depth to the sweetness of the parsnips.
- Herbs and seasoning – A little salt, pepper, and sometimes rosemary or thyme make this dish perfect for almost any occasion.
Every time I make it, it’s like the parsnips go from being an afterthought to the star of the meal.
Ingredients Needed
The best part about this recipe is how few ingredients you need. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Parsnips – 4-6 medium-sized parsnips, peeled and cut into batons (like fries).
- Olive oil – A couple of tablespoons for roasting.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, finely chopped or minced.
- Parmesan – Freshly grated, about 1/2 cup.
- Fresh herbs – Rosemary or thyme work great, but you can also play around with sage or even oregano if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Salt and pepper – For seasoning.
It’s a minimalist approach that packs a punch in flavor.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan
This part is the easiest. Here’s how I make it:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (or 400°F). A hot oven is key for that golden crispness.
- Prepare the parsnips – Peel the parsnips and cut them into even-sized batons, about 4-5 cm long. This helps them cook evenly.
- Season the parsnips – Toss the parsnip batons in a generous amount of olive oil, making sure they’re well-coated. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Roast the parsnips – Spread the parsnips out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30-40 minutes, turning once, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Add the parmesan – Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle the grated parmesan over the hot parsnips. The heat will help it melt into every crevice.
- Garnish – Toss with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Serve immediately.
You’ve got crispy, cheesy goodness in no time.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s take a closer look at some of the ingredients that make this dish special:
- Parsnips: These root vegetables are a close cousin to carrots, but with a nuttier, sweeter flavor. When you roast them, the starches break down into sugars, creating a natural caramelization that’s irresistible.
- Parmesan: This hard cheese brings more than just salt to the table. It’s packed with umami, the savory flavor that rounds out the sweetness of the parsnips. Plus, the fat content helps to create that crispy golden layer.
- Olive Oil: The fat in olive oil isn’t just for flavor – it’s what helps achieve that crispy texture. Olive oil has a lower smoking point than other oils, but when used at the right temperature, it helps form a beautiful, crunchy exterior on roasted vegetables.
- Garlic and Herbs: Garlic adds a punchy richness, while the herbs bring freshness and earthiness. Rosemary, in particular, pairs perfectly with root vegetables due to its woody, fragrant qualities.
Expert Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Make sure your parsnips have room to breathe on the baking sheet. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam rather than roast, and you’ll miss out on that crispy texture.
- Grate your parmesan fresh: Pre-grated parmesan doesn’t melt the same way and can often be a little waxy. Grating it fresh gives you the perfect melt and flavor.
- Season at every stage: Toss the parsnips in seasoning before roasting and again after you’ve added the parmesan. Layering the flavors ensures every bite is bursting with taste.
- Add a squeeze of lemon: After roasting, a little lemon juice over the parsnips can add a refreshing zing that balances out the richness.
Recipe Variations
While Jamie’s version is perfection, sometimes it’s fun to switch things up. Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
- Maple Roasted Parsnips: Drizzle a little maple syrup over the parsnips before roasting to add a sweet, caramelized touch that works wonderfully with the parmesan.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika to the olive oil before roasting for some heat. It’s a nice contrast to the sweetness of the parsnips.
- Bacon or Prosciutto: For a meaty twist, throw on some crispy bacon bits or prosciutto right after you add the parmesan. The salty, savory bits will add another layer of depth.
- Vegan Version: Skip the parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy, plant-based alternative. You can also drizzle some tahini for extra richness.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips with Parmesan has earned its place in my recipe repertoire because it’s not only easy to make but also absolutely delicious. The flavors come together beautifully, and it’s a dish that complements just about anything – from a casual weeknight meal to a holiday spread. Plus, it’s a great way to get people excited about vegetables.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan?
You’ll need parsnips, parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, fresh thyme, and a bit of salt and pepper.
How Do You Get The Perfect Crispy Roast Parsnips?
Make sure the parsnips are coated in olive oil and spread out in a single layer on the baking tray. Roast at a high temperature like 200°C to get that crispy texture.
Can You Make Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prep the parsnips and season them. Then store them in the fridge and roast them right before serving for the best result.