Garlic & Rosemary Roasted Turnips
Roasting turnips with garlic and rosemary transforms this often-overlooked root vegetable into a tender, caramelized, and incredibly flavorful side dish, perfect for any meal.
For 4 servings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Wash and peel the turnips thoroughly. Cut each turnip into uniform 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. Uniformity in size is crucial for even cooking.
In a large bowl, combine the cubed turnips, olive oil, minced garlic, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together well until all the turnip pieces are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
Spread the seasoned turnips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded; if necessary, use two baking sheets to allow proper air circulation and prevent steaming.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping the turnips halfway through (around 12-15 minutes), until they are tender when pierced with a fork and beautifully golden brown and slightly caramelized on the edges.
Remove from the oven and serve immediately as a delicious side dish. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if desired for an extra aromatic touch.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Uniformity is Key**: Cut turnips into similarly sized pieces for even roasting. Irregular pieces will cook at different rates, leading to some being undercooked and others overcooked.
- 2**Don't Crowd the Pan**: Give the turnips ample space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in soft, rather than crispy, vegetables.
- 3**Fresh Herbs**: While dried rosemary works well, using fresh rosemary (about 1 tablespoon, finely chopped) will provide an even more vibrant aroma and flavor to the dish.
- 4**Taste and Adjust**: Always taste a piece of roasted turnip before serving and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Sometimes a little extra seasoning can make a big difference.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings for a subtle heat that complements the earthy turnips.
Herb SwapHerb Swap
Replace rosemary with other robust herbs like fresh or dried thyme, oregano, or a mix of Italian herbs for a different aromatic profile.
Sweet & SavorySweet & Savory
Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey during the last 10 minutes of roasting for an extra layer of sweetness and deeper caramelization.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Turnips are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C (for immune health), Vitamin K (for bone health), and folate.
High in Fiber
The dietary fiber in turnips aids digestion, promotes gut health, and can help regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to overall well-being.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Turnips contain beneficial compounds like glucosinolates and other antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
While smaller, younger turnips can sometimes be roasted with their skin on (after a thorough scrub), larger, older turnips tend to have tougher, more bitter skin. Peeling is generally recommended for a better texture and flavor in roasted turnips.
