Honey roasted carrots are a sweet and colorful dish that’s super easy to make. Toss fresh carrots in honey, olive oil, and a pinch of salt, then roast until they’re tender and caramelized!
These carrots make a lovely side dish that can brighten any meal. I love how the honey gives them a yummy glaze. Just be careful—they’re so good, you might want to eat them straight from the pan! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and are naturally sweet. If you can’t find baby carrots, you can use regular carrots, just cut them into similar-sized pieces.
Honey: This adds sweetness and a nice glaze. If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup works really well as a substitute.
Olive Oil: It helps in roasting and adds flavor. For a change, you can try a different oil, like avocado oil or melted coconut oil, to suit your preference.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the overall taste. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a quick alternative, though fresh has a stronger flavor.
Parsley: It adds color and freshness. Feel free to replace it with other herbs, like thyme or dill, depending on what you like.
How Do I Get My Carrots Perfectly Roasted?
To achieve the best honey roasted carrots, focus on the roasting technique. Proper oven temperature and timing are essential.
- Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready.
- Ensure the carrots are cut evenly for uniform cooking. Place them in a single layer on the baking sheet to avoid steaming.
- Turn the carrots halfway through roasting for even caramelization. You’ll know they’re done when they’re fork-tender and golden.
Delicious Honey Roasted Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (about 450g) whole baby carrots, peeled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (for a touch of brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to roast. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s easy and oh-so-worth it for the sweet, caramelized flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your carrots roast perfectly and get that beautiful caramelization.
2. Make the Honey-Garlic Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to combine everything well until it’s smooth and fully blended.
3. Toss the Carrots:
Add the peeled baby carrots to the bowl with the honey-garlic mixture. Toss them all around until they are nicely coated. You want every carrot to soak up that delicious flavor!
4. Arrange and Roast:
Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan. This helps them roast evenly. Now, pop them in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to give them a toss halfway through for even cooking and browning.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the carrots are tender and beautifully caramelized, take them out of the oven. Transfer the carrots to a serving dish and drizzle any leftover pan juices over them to retain that delicious flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. If you like a touch of acidity, drizzle some lemon juice or apple cider vinegar over the carrots before serving—it’s optional but highly recommended! Serve warm and enjoy the lovely sweetness of your honey roasted carrots!
Can I Use Different Types of Carrots?
Absolutely! While baby carrots work great, you can use regular carrots sliced into sticks or rounds. Just ensure they’re around the same size for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup is a fantastic substitute for honey and will still provide that delicious sweetness. Agave syrup is another alternative you can use!
How Should I Store Leftover Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a little olive oil if they seem dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the carrots and mix them with the honey-garlic mixture a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to roast them, but avoid mixing with any pan juices until right before serving for the best texture.
