Honey Roasted Carrots are a simple, yet absolutely delicious side dish that takes minimal effort and turns an everyday vegetable into something extraordinary. The natural sweetness of the carrots, paired with the rich, caramelized honey glaze, creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Why You’ll Love Honey Roasted Carrots
Quick & Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, these carrots come together in no time. The oven does most of the work, leaving you with a stress-free side dish.
Naturally Sweet & Savory: The honey brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots, while the olive oil and seasoning add a savory depth that balances it perfectly.
Healthy: Carrots are packed with nutrients, including vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. This recipe enhances their flavor while keeping things light and healthy.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice level. Add a dash of cinnamon, ginger, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special holiday meal, Honey Roasted Carrots are the ideal side to complement almost any main dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (about 4 cups) baby carrots or regular carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Carrots: If you’re using regular carrots, peel and cut them into sticks about 2–3 inches long. Baby carrots can be used whole.
- Toss with Oil & Honey: In a large bowl, combine the carrots with olive oil, honey, and lemon juice (if using). Toss to coat the carrots evenly with the oil and honey mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
- Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Spread the carrots out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even roasting.
- Roast the Carrots: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The carrots should be tender and slightly caramelized on the edges.
- Serve & Garnish: Once the carrots are done roasting, remove them from the oven. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 160mg
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
How to Serve Honey Roasted Carrots
These honey roasted carrots make an excellent side for a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Roast Chicken: Pair the carrots with a juicy roast chicken for a balanced and comforting meal.
- Grilled Steak: The sweetness of the carrots complements the richness of grilled beef or lamb.
- Salmon: The natural sweetness of the carrots works beautifully with a lightly seasoned salmon fillet.
- Vegetarian Dishes: Serve these carrots alongside a hearty grain-based dish, like quinoa or rice, for a complete vegetarian meal.
Additional Tips
- Add Spice: For a warm kick, add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili flakes to the honey mixture before roasting.
- Roast the Carrots Whole: If you prefer a more rustic look, you can roast the carrots whole without cutting them. Just make sure they’re tender by the end of the cooking time.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the carrots in advance and roast them just before serving. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meals.
- Storage: Leftover honey roasted carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to retain their texture.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?
A1: Yes! You can absolutely use regular carrots. Just peel and cut them into sticks or rounds to ensure they cook evenly.
Q2: Can I make these carrots spicy?
A2: Yes! Add a pinch of chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika to the honey mixture to add a bit of heat.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A4: You can prep the carrots and toss them in the honey and oil mixture in advance. Store them in the fridge and roast them just before serving.
Q5: Can I freeze honey roasted carrots?
A5: While you can freeze them, the texture may change slightly after reheating. It’s best to enjoy them fresh, but if you have leftovers, freezing them is an option.
Conclusion
Honey Roasted Carrots are a fantastic way to elevate your vegetable game. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a sweet and savory side dish that will steal the show at any meal. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Enjoy!
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Honey Roasted Carrots
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Honey Roasted Carrots are a healthy, easy-to-make side dish with a sweet and savory flavor profile. A perfect dish for any occasion, ready in just 30 minutes! #HoneyRoastedCarrots
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) bag baby carrots
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Crumbled goat cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place baby carrots onto a rimmed 9×13-inch baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, dried thyme, dried rosemary, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and melted butter.
- Drizzle the honey mixture over the carrots and toss to combine, ensuring all carrots are evenly coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-35 minutes, stirring every 5-10 minutes to prevent burning, until carrots are cooked to your liking.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and crumbled goat cheese. Serve immediately!
Notes
- Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness for the carrots.
- For extra flavor, you can drizzle more honey after baking for a sweeter finish.
- Pair with any main dish for a well-rounded meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg