Honey Roasted Carrots

Honey Roasted Carrots: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Honey Roasted Carrots are a simple yet flavorful dish that elevates the humble carrot to a new level. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by the rich honey butter glaze, creating a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or looking for a quick weeknight side, these honey roasted carrots are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs. carrots – peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – adds richness and helps the carrots roast evenly
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – enhances the natural flavors of the carrots
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper – adds a hint of spice
• 3 tablespoons butter – provides a rich, creamy base for the glaze
• 3 tablespoons honey – adds sweetness and helps caramelize the carrots
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper – adds a subtle kick of heat
• ½ tablespoon fresh thyme or fresh parsley – optional, for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help the carrots roast quickly, achieving a perfect caramelized exterior while remaining tender inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

In a large bowl, toss the carrot chunks with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure that the carrots are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning. Spread them out in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent the carrots from sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Roast the Carrots

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for about 20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Roasting at a high temperature will bring out the natural sweetness of the carrots and give them a beautiful golden-brown color.

Step 4: Make the Honey Butter Glaze

While the carrots are roasting, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Once melted, stir in the honey and cayenne pepper. Allow the mixture to cook for several minutes, letting the flavors meld together. The honey will add a beautiful sheen and sweetness to the glaze, while the cayenne pepper provides a subtle warmth.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the carrots are done roasting, remove them from the oven and transfer them to the saucepan with the honey butter glaze. Stir well to coat the carrots evenly with the glaze. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If desired, garnish the carrots with fresh thyme or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the honey roasted carrots warm.

Notes:

• Carrot Size: If your carrots are thicker, consider cutting them in half lengthwise to ensure even roasting.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme adds a subtle earthiness, while parsley provides a fresh contrast to the sweet glaze. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage.
• Spice Level: The cayenne pepper adds a mild kick, but you can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference. For a more pronounced heat, add a pinch more.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the carrots ahead of time by roasting them and then reheating them with the honey butter glaze just before serving.

Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 170 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 16g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots? Yes, you can use baby carrots, but keep in mind that they may cook faster than regular carrots. Adjust the roasting time accordingly.

2. How can I make this dish vegan? To make this dish vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan butter or olive oil.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can roast the carrots ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat them in a saucepan with the honey butter glaze.

4. What main dishes pair well with honey roasted carrots? These honey roasted carrots pair beautifully with roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or beef. They also complement vegetarian dishes such as lentil loaf or stuffed bell peppers.

5. How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Honey Roasted Carrots are a delicious and versatile side dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or bringing them to a holiday gathering, these sweet and savory carrots are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the combination of tender roasted carrots with the rich honey butter glaze and the subtle kick of cayenne pepper. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion!

Honey Roasted Carrots

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• Author: recipevalue.com
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Honey Roasted Carrots are a simple yet flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a rich honey-butter glaze. The carrots are roasted until tender and caramelized, then tossed in a sweet and slightly spicy honey mixture, making them a perfect complement to any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs. carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons honey
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ tablespoon fresh thyme or fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Prepare Carrots: Toss the carrot chunks with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Spread them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Roast Carrots: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
• Make Honey Butter Glaze: While the carrots are roasting, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the honey and cayenne pepper, cooking for several minutes to combine the flavors.
• Combine and Serve: Once the carrots are roasted, transfer them to the saucepan with the honey butter glaze and stir to coat. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

• Carrot Size: Ensure even roasting by cutting thicker carrots in half lengthwise.
• Herb Options: You can substitute thyme or parsley with rosemary or sage for different flavors.
• Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to taste for more or less heat.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the carrots in advance and reheat them with the honey butter glaze before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 170 kcal
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Honey Roasted Carrots