Simple Roasted Turnips with Thyme
This simple recipe transforms humble turnips into a tender, sweet, and savory side dish with minimal effort. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, complemented by aromatic fresh thyme.
For 2 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. Cut them into uniform 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. Ensuring uniform size is crucial for even cooking.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cubed turnips, olive oil, chopped fresh thyme leaves, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly until all the turnip pieces are evenly coated.
Spread the seasoned turnips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded; if necessary, use two baking sheets to allow for proper air circulation and caramelization, rather than steaming.
Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping the turnips halfway through the cooking time. The turnips are ready when they are fork-tender, beautifully golden-brown, and have slightly caramelized edges.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Taste a piece and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves before serving immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Uniform Cubes: Cut turnips into equally sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes) to ensure they cook evenly. Irregular pieces will result in some being overcooked and others undercooked.
- 2Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Spreading the turnips in a single layer without overcrowding is key for roasting. If the pan is too full, the vegetables will steam instead of roast, preventing that desirable caramelization.
- 3Fresh vs. Dried Thyme: While fresh thyme is recommended for its vibrant flavor, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme if fresh is unavailable. Rub dried thyme between your fingers to release its aroma before adding.
- 4Check for Doneness: Turnips should be easily pierced with a fork when done. If they're still firm, continue roasting for another 5-10 minutes, checking frequently.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Roasted Turnips
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a subtle kick.
Garlic & Herb TurnipsGarlic & Herb Turnips
Include 1-2 cloves of minced garlic or 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder along with the thyme for an extra layer of savory flavor.
Sweet & Savory TurnipsSweet & Savory Turnips
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey over the turnips during the last 10 minutes of roasting for a touch of sweetness that complements their earthy notes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Turnips are a good source of Vitamin C, which supports immune health, and Vitamin K, important for blood clotting and bone health.
High in Fiber
They provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain bowel regularity, and can contribute to a feeling of fullness.
Low-Calorie and Low-Carb
As a non-starchy vegetable, turnips are low in calories and carbohydrates, making them an excellent choice for weight management and low-carb diets.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh turnips are preferred for optimal texture, you can use frozen. Thaw them completely and pat them very dry before tossing with oil and seasonings to prevent them from becoming watery during roasting.
