Jamie Oliver Roast Parsnips With Parmesan Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

I remember the first time I tried roast parsnips. It was at a friend’s cozy dinner party on a chilly autumn evening. The kitchen was filled with the aroma of roasted veggies and melted cheese. When I bit into those golden, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside parsnips sprinkled with Parmesan, I was hooked. They had this incredible sweet earthiness balanced by the nutty, salty cheese – pure comfort food magic.

This recipe from Jamie Oliver brings that magic right into your kitchen. It’s simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor. If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both fancy enough for guests and easy enough for a weeknight, this is it.

Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan Recipe

Jamie Oliver has a knack for turning humble ingredients into unforgettable dishes. His roast parsnips with Parmesan is a perfect example. He takes this often overlooked root vegetable and elevates it with just a few ingredients and straightforward technique.

Here’s what makes it special:

• Parsnips are roasted until caramelized and sweet.
• Parmesan adds a savory, crispy crust.
• A hint of seasoning to boost natural flavors.
• It’s simple but packed with personality.

This recipe is a reminder that sometimes the best food comes from simple things treated well.

Ingredients Needed

When I first gathered the ingredients, I was surprised by how few things I actually needed. It’s refreshing to have a recipe that doesn’t require a dozen obscure items.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Parsnips (fresh and firm) – the star of the show.
• Olive oil – for roasting and flavor.
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated) – gives that salty, nutty crunch.
• Sea salt – to bring out natural sweetness.
• Freshly ground black pepper – for a little bite.
• Optional: fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

No complicated pantry raid required – just good, simple ingredients.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan

The first time I followed this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to get perfect roast parsnips every time.

Step-by-step:

• Preheat your oven to around 200°C (400°F). Hot ovens are key for that caramelized finish.
• Peel and chop the parsnips into even-sized sticks or chunks. Uniform size ensures even cooking.
• Toss parsnips in a generous splash of olive oil. Make sure they’re well coated but not drenched.
• Season with sea salt and freshly ground pepper.
• Spread the parsnips out on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Crowding the tray leads to steaming, not roasting.
• Roast for about 30-40 minutes, turning once or twice, until they’re golden and tender.
• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the parsnips in the last 5-7 minutes of roasting so it melts and crisps up beautifully.
• Optional: Add fresh herbs in the last few minutes for an aromatic lift.

Simple, hands-off, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

I love learning why recipes work – it makes cooking feel like a science experiment you can enjoy.

• Parsnips: These roots are packed with natural sugars. When roasted, those sugars caramelize, creating that beautiful golden crust and sweet flavor.
• Olive oil: Helps with heat transfer and browning. It also adds its own fruity flavor, enriching the parsnips.
• Parmesan cheese: Contains umami-rich compounds. When heated, the cheese crisps and adds a savory depth that contrasts with the sweetness of the parsnips.
• Salt: Enhances the natural sugars and umami, balancing flavors.
• Pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.

Roasting parsnips with these ingredients is a simple chemical dance that brings out the best in each component.

Expert Tips

Over time, I’ve picked up some insider tips to take this recipe from good to unforgettable:

• Use freshly grated Parmesan – pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting properly.
• Don’t overcrowd the tray. Parsnips need space for air to circulate and get crispy.
• Cut parsnips evenly – this prevents some pieces from burning while others stay raw.
• Try roasting at a higher heat for the last 5 minutes to get extra crispiness.
• Let them rest for a few minutes after roasting so the cheese sets perfectly.

These small tweaks make a big difference in flavor and texture.

Recipe Variations

Sometimes you want to mix it up. Here are some fun spins on this classic:

• Add garlic cloves to the roasting tray for a mellow roasted garlic flavor.
• Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper, tangier cheese.
• Toss the parsnips with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before roasting for extra caramelization.
• Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or chives after cooking for a fresh green contrast.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes.

These variations let you tailor the recipe to your mood or occasion.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips with Parmesan is a shining example of how simple ingredients and techniques can transform a humble vegetable into a star dish. It’s cozy, comforting, and a little bit fancy without the fuss.

Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a holiday feast, this recipe never fails to impress.

FAQs

How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s Roast Parsnips With Parmesan?

First peel and cut the parsnips, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until crispy. Grate some parmesan and sprinkle it on top before serving.

Can I Use Other Cheese Instead Of Parmesan?

You can try other hard cheeses like pecorino, but parmesan gives the best flavor for this recipe.

Do I Need To Peel The Parsnips?

Yes, peeling them helps to remove any bitterness and gives a smoother texture when roasted.

Can I Prepare The Parsnips Ahead Of Time?

You can peel and cut the parsnips a day in advance. Just store them in water in the fridge to keep them fresh.

What’s The Best Temperature For Roasting Parsnips?

Roast them at 200°C (400°F). This temperature helps them get crispy and golden.

Should I Add Any Herbs To The Parsnips?

Yes, fresh rosemary or thyme works really well with the parsnips for added flavor.

How Long Do I Roast Parsnips For?

Roast the parsnips for about 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they’re crispy and golden brown.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?

To make it vegan, swap the parmesan for a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.

What Should I Serve With These Roast Parsnips?

They go great with roast meats, especially turkey or chicken. You can also serve them as a side with a salad.

How Can I Make The Parsnips Extra Crispy?

Make sure to coat them in enough olive oil and space them out on the baking tray. This allows them to crisp up properly.