Seasons/Availability
Baby mix bunched carrots are available year-round.
Current Facts
Carrots are a root vegetable, scientifically known as Daucus carota subsp. sativus. Baby mixed carrots come in an assortment of colors and shapes; they can be round, conical or tapered. It is said that baby carrots have more nutrients per ounce than mature carrots.
Nutritional Value
Baby mixed carrots are an excellent source of Vitamin A and potassium. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, iron and phosphorous. Additionally, they are low in calories and contain no fat and cholesterol.
Applications
Baby mixed carrots can be served raw as a snack or crudité dish; steamed until just tender for use in salads. Baby mixed carrots can be cooked in soups and stews, blended into sauces or purées, roasted with other vegetables or served glazed for a side dish.
They go well with savory herbs like oregano and rosemary. They can also be paired with fruits such as oranges and apples, as well as cheeses like feta and goat cheese.
Recipes
Spicy Roasted Baby Mixed Carrots: Preheat oven to 375°F. Toss baby mixed carrots with olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for approximately 20 minutes or until tender; stirring once halfway through cooking time. Sprinkle with cayenne pepper and lemon juice before serving.
Carrot Soup: Saute onions in olive oil until softened. Add baby mixed carrots, vegetable broth, salt and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes or until the carrots are tender; stirring occasionally. Purée in a blender or food processor with some of the cooking liquid until smooth. Garnish with chives or parsley before serving.
Health Benefits
Baby mixed carrots are a good source of dietary fiber, which helps keep the digestive system healthy and functioning properly. They also contain powerful antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body and protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Eating baby mixed carrots regularly may also help to improve eye health, boost immunity, stabilize blood sugar levels and promote healthy skin.
Enjoying baby mixed carrots in recipes is a tasty way to take advantage of their many health benefits. So don’t be afraid to get creative with how you prepare and serve them! You’ll be sure to reap the rewards both for your taste buds and your overall health.
