If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavor-packed vegetable dish, this Roasted Rainbow Carrots Recipe delivers on every level. Inspired by a dish we enjoyed at Skal, a charming Swedish restaurant in Newport Beach owned by chef Helene Henderson (of Malibu Farm fame), this is our recreation of that unforgettable plate.

Roasted Carrots with Herbed Zaatar Yogurt & Hot Honey

These roasted carrots are earthy and caramelized, paired with a creamy herbed zaatar yogurt and finished with a drizzle of hot honey for a perfect balance of savory, cool, and sweet heat. It’s simple, healthy, and stunning enough for entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Rainbow Carrots Recipe

This dish hits all the right notes:

• Naturally sweet and earthy from roasted heirloom carrots
• Creamy and herbaceous from the zaatar yogurt
• Sweet and spicy from the hot honey drizzle
• Visually beautiful thanks to colorful rainbow carrots

Whether served as a side or a light vegetarian main, it’s a dish that feels both rustic and elevated.

Tips for the Best Roasted Rainbow Carrots

Choose Fresh, Thin Carrots

Smaller heirloom carrots roast more evenly and develop better caramelization without becoming mushy.

Don’t Skimp on the Heat

A high roasting temperature (450°F) is key to getting those golden, slightly crisp edges.

Balance the Flavors

Taste your yogurt before serving—adjust lemon, salt, or zaatar to get the perfect tangy-herby balance.

What is Zaatar?

Zaatar is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made with thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. It adds a tangy, nutty, and herbal flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables and creamy yogurt.

This Roasted Rainbow Carrots Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Inspired by Skal’s fresh, coastal approach to cooking, this dish brings together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients in a way that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

Serve it at your next dinner party, holiday gathering, or weeknight meal—you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.

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Chef Tips with Jason Hill | CookingSessions.com

Roasted Rainbow Carrots with Herbed Zaatar Yogurt & Hot Honey

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These roasted carrots are earthy and caramelized, paired with a creamy herbed zaatar yogurt and finished with a drizzle of hot honey for a perfect balance of savory, cool, and sweet heat. It’s simple, healthy, and stunning enough for entertaining.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 8

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  

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Herbed Zaatar Yogurt

• 3/4 cup labneh or Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives dill, parsley, or cilantro
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon zaatar or more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic purée
• Fresh black pepper optional

For the Carrots

• 1-2 bunches heirloom rainbow carrots
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• Salt to taste
• Cayenne pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves to taste

To Serve

• Herbed zaatar yogurt
• Hot honey
• Arugula salad optional

Method

 

Step 1: Prepare the Herbed Zaatar Yogurt

1. Finely chop your fresh herbs and combine them with the yogurt, lemon juice, zaatar, salt, and garlic purée. Mix until smooth and well blended. Keep chilled until ready to serve so the flavors can meld.

Step 2: Roast the Carrots

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F.
2. In a large bowl, toss the rainbow carrots with olive oil, honey, salt, thyme leaves and a pinch of cayenne for heat. Spread them evenly on a sheet pan.
3. Roast for about 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the carrots are tender and lightly caramelized on the edges. Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and toss lightly.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

1. Spread a generous layer of herbed zaatar yogurt on a serving plate. Arrange the roasted carrots on top, and serve with a side of hot honey.
2. Serve alongside a simple arugula salad for a fresh, peppery contrast.

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