Norwegian Grilled Root Vegetables with Savory Herb Butter

There is something undeniably comforting about the earthy, robust flavors of root vegetables, especially when prepared with a technique that highlights their natural sweetness. This Norwegian-inspired recipe takes humble ingredients like carrots, parsnips, and celery root and transforms them into a culinary masterpiece using the high-heat searing capabilities of the Arteflame grill. By charring the vegetables on the flat cooktop, you achieve a delightful caramelized crust that contrasts perfectly with the tender interior, capturing the rustic essence of Nordic cuisine.

The secret to elevating this dish lies in the homemade herb butter. As the vegetables finish roasting on the griddle, the rich compound butter—infused with fresh dill, parsley, and garlic—melts over them, creating a glossy, aromatic glaze. This dish is not just a side; it is a celebration of seasonal produce and outdoor cooking. whether you are hosting a winter barbecue or a summer evening feast, these grilled root vegetables bring a sophisticated yet hearty profile to the table that pairs beautifully with almost any main course.

Ingredients

Vegetables

• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into batons or thick slices
• 3 parsnips, peeled and cut into batons
• 1 medium celery root (celeriac), peeled and cubed
• 1 red onion, cut into thick wedges
• 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Norwegian Herb Butter

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest
• Pinch of coarse sea salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and peel all your root vegetables. It is crucial to cut them into uniform sizes—roughly 1-inch chunks or batons—to ensure they cook evenly.
2. If your root vegetables are particularly dense, you may want to blanch them in boiling salted water for 3–5 minutes to soften them slightly before grilling. This ensures the inside is tender by the time the outside achieves a perfect char.
3. Pat the vegetables completely dry, then toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 2: Make the Herb Butter

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped dill, chopped parsley, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and coarse salt.
2. Mash the ingredients together with a fork until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
3. Set the butter aside at room temperature so it is ready to melt immediately over the hot vegetables.

Step 3: Fire Up the Arteflame

1. Build a fire in the center of your Arteflame grill. Allow it to burn down until the center grate is extremely hot (over 600°F) and the outer flat cooktop is heated through.
2. Lightly oil the flat carbon steel cooktop to prevent sticking and encourage a good sear.

Step 4: Grill the Vegetables

1. Place the root vegetables on the flat cooktop. For faster browning, place them closer to the center; for slower roasting, move them toward the outer edge.
2. Allow the vegetables to sear undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to develop a crust.
3. Turn the vegetables using tongs or a spatula. Continue cooking for another 8–10 minutes, tossing occasionally, until they are tender when pierced with a fork and have caramelized, brown edges.

Step 5: Finish with Butter

1. Once the vegetables are cooked to perfection, move them to a cooler zone on the outer rim of the grill or pile them together.
2. Add dollops of the Norwegian herb butter directly onto the hot vegetables.
3. Toss the vegetables gently as the butter melts, coating every piece in the savory, herbaceous glaze. Serve immediately directly from the grill.

Tips

To master this recipe, understanding your grill's heat zones is essential. The Arteflame cooktop varies in temperature, with the center being the hottest and the outer edge being cooler. Start your root vegetables closer to the center to achieve the Maillard reaction—that golden-brown searing—and then move them to the outer ring to finish roasting without burning. This "sear and slide" technique is perfect for dense ingredients like carrots and celeriac.

Additionally, do not overcrowd the cooking surface. If the vegetables are packed too tightly, they will steam rather than roast, and you will lose that signature grilled texture. If you choose not to blanch the vegetables beforehand, cut them slightly thinner and use the cooler zones of the grill to roast them slowly, allowing the sugars to caramelize naturally over a longer period.

Variations

While the classic dill and parsley combination screams Nordic tradition, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the flavor profile to match the rest of your meal or use whatever herbs are flourishing in your garden. Experimenting with different textures and finishes can transform this dish from a rustic side into a show-stopping main attraction for vegetarians.

• Sweet Glaze: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the butter mixture for a sweet and savory contrast that pairs well with the earthiness of parsnips.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne into the oil when tossing the vegetables for a warming heat.
• Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese over the vegetables right before serving for added richness.
• Bacon Infusion: Dice bacon and cook it on the griddle alongside the vegetables; the rendered fat will add a smoky, savory depth to the roots.
• Different Herbs: Swap dill for rosemary and thyme for a more continental European flavor profile.

Best pairings

These Norwegian grilled root vegetables are robust enough to stand up to bold main courses. The earthy flavors and rich herb butter make them the ideal accompaniment for meats that benefit from a touch of brightness and acidity. Whether you are cooking a delicate fish or a heavy cut of red meat, these vegetables provide balance and texture to the plate.

• Grilled Salmon: Following the Nordic theme, a plank-grilled or seared salmon fillet is the perfect partner for the dill-infused butter.
• Venison or Game Meat: The sweetness of the parsnips and carrots complements the lean, gaminess of venison or elk steaks perfectly.
• Roast Chicken: Serve these alongside a spatchcocked chicken cooked on the center grate for a classic, comforting family meal.
• Lamb Chops: The herbaceous notes in the butter resonate beautifully with the flavor profile of grilled lamb.

Conclusion

Mastering Norwegian grilled root vegetables on your Arteflame is a testament to the beauty of simple cooking. By allowing high-quality ingredients to shine through the use of wood fire and high heat, you create a dish that is deeply satisfying and full of character. The combination of caramelized edges, tender interiors, and the aromatic punch of fresh herb butter elevates these humble roots into something truly special.

Whether you are looking to add more vegetables to your diet or simply want to impress your guests with a side dish that steals the show, this recipe is a must-try. Fire up the grill, embrace the chill in the air, and enjoy the hearty, rustic flavors of the North right in your own backyard.