Grilling carrots doesn’t sound like the most glamorous cooking move, but if you do it right, it’s one of those small food moments that just feels good. It’s simple, cheap, and oddly satisfying, especially if you’re trying to eat well without spending a ton. And honestly, when you get that perfect char on the outside with a soft centre? It’s hard to go back to boiled or steamed.
Here’s the best way to grill carrots without turning them into some over-complicated project
Start by getting the right kind of carrot. Not those tiny baby carrots from a bag, they’re fine for snacks, but not great on the grill. You want real, full-size carrots. Look for ones that are medium thickness and somewhat straight. Peel them, trim the ends, and slice them lengthwise if they’re on the thicker side. You’re aiming for even pieces so they cook evenly. If they’re thin, you can grill them whole.
Now the prep: toss them in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. That’s your base. If you want to add more flavour, try a bit of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of maple syrup for sweetness. But honestly? Oil, salt, and pepper will already take you far.
Set your grill to medium heat. You don’t want it blazing hot, or you’ll end up with burnt outsides and raw insides. Lay the carrots across the grates perpendicular to the bars so they don’t fall through. Close the lid and let them go for about 4–5 minutes, then flip and grill the other side. You’re looking for grill marks and a little softness when you poke them with a fork, usually around 10 to 12 minutes total.
When they’re done, pull them off and hit them with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you have them. They’re great on their own, but also work tossed into salads, grain bowls, or next to whatever else you’re grilling.
The best part? Carrots are cheap. Like, really cheap. You can make a fancy-looking, healthy side dish for under $2 and still feel like you’re eating something thoughtful. And in a world where food prices feel out of control, that kind of simple, smart cooking feels like a little win.
So yeah, grill the carrots. They’re easy, budget-friendly, and surprisingly delicious.