What To Do With Carrot Green Tops

Carrot green tops are edible and can be used in a surprising number of ways instead of being tossed in the trash.
 

If you’ve been wondering what to do with carrot green tops after trimming a bunch of carrots, you’re in luck because those leafy greens are packed with flavor and nutrients.
 

They’re not just a garnish either.
 

Carrot tops can be turned into pesto, blended into soups, whizzed into a vibrant green sauce, or even dried into a seasoning.
 

In this post, we’ll walk through the best things to do with carrot green tops, how to prep them properly, and a few tasty recipes that’ll make you think twice before discarding them again.
 

Let’s get into it.
 

What to Do With Carrot Green Tops

What to do with carrot green tops really comes down to a handful of simple, tasty options.
 

Here are the best ways to put those leafy greens to work:
 

1. Make Carrot Top Pesto

One of the most popular things to do with carrot green tops is turn them into pesto.
 

They have a mild, parsley-like flavor that works beautifully blended with garlic, nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil.
 

Swap the basil for carrot tops and you’ve got a fresh, vibrant pesto that’s perfect on pasta or spread on toast.
 

Just blanch the greens for a minute first to soften their texture and mellow any bitterness.
 

2. Blend Them Into Soups and Stocks

Another easy way to use carrot green tops is to toss them into soups and stocks.
 

Their earthy flavor pairs well with carrot, potato, and squash soups.
 

Chop them finely and stir them in near the end of cooking so they keep their bright color and don’t overcook.
 

You can also add a handful to homemade vegetable stock for extra depth.
 

3. Whip Up a Green Sauce or Chimichurri

If you’re still figuring out what to do with carrot green tops, a zesty green sauce is a great answer.
 

Finely chop the tops and combine them with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and a pinch of chili flakes.
 

That’s basically a chimichurri, and it’s fantastic spooned over grilled vegetables, fish, or steak.
 

You get a fresh, herbaceous condiment for almost no cost.
 

4. Dry Them for a Seasoning

Drying carrot green tops is a smart way to make them last for months.
 

Spread the leaves on a baking sheet and dry them in a low oven or a dehydrator until crisp.
 

Once cool, crumble them into a jar and use the powder like you would dried parsley or herb salt.
 

This is one of the most underrated things to do with carrot green tops because it turns a perishable item into a pantry staple.
 

How to Prep Carrot Green Tops Before Using Them

Before you use carrot green tops in any recipe, a little prep goes a long way.
 

1. Wash Them Thoroughly

Carrot tops tend to hold onto grit and soil, so give them a good soak.
 

Swish the leaves in a bowl of cold water, then rinse again until the water runs clear.
 

Pat them dry with a clean towel or spin them in a salad spinner.
 

2. Remove Tough Stems

The thicker stems can be fibrous and tough, so strip the tender leaves away from them.
 

Set the leaves aside for your recipe and compost the stems or save them for stock.
 

3. Blanch to Reduce Bitterness

Carrot tops can taste slightly bitter, especially older ones.
 

A quick blanch in boiling water for about a minute, followed by an ice bath, softens that edge.
 

Do this before making pesto or sauces for a smoother flavor.
 

Tips for Using Carrot Green Tops

Here are a few extra pointers to keep in mind when you use carrot green tops.
 

1. Choose Fresh, Young Leaves

The best carrot green tops come from young, fresh carrots.
 

Older leaves get tough and bitter, so look for bright, perky greens attached to firm carrots.
 

2. Store Them Properly

Once separated from the carrots, wrap the tops in a damp paper towel and store them in a sealed bag in the fridge.
 

Use them within a few days before they wilt.
 

3. Don’t Overdo the Amount

Carrot greens contain natural compounds that can be harsh in large quantities.
 

Treat them like an herb or a leafy green and enjoy them in moderate amounts.
 

A small handful per serving is plenty.
 

So, What to Do With Carrot Green Tops?

Carrot green tops are edible and worth keeping, with plenty of tasty ways to put them to use.
 

You can make pesto, blend them into soups, whip up a green sauce, or dry them into a seasoning.
 

With a quick wash and a little prep, those leafy greens stop being waste and start being an ingredient.
 

Hope this post has helped you with ideas for what to do with carrot green tops and the tips to make the most of them.