Imagine transforming ordinary carrots into a mouthwatering side dish that's so irresistible, your dinner guests will be begging for the recipe. These honey-glazed roasted carrots are not just a simple vegetable side, but a culinary experience that elevates your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. With a perfect balance of sweet honey, aromatic thyme, and beautifully caramelized edges, this recipe will turn even the most reluctant vegetable eaters into carrot enthusiasts!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle for even roasting.
- Wash and peel the carrots thoroughly. Cut them into uniform diagonal or matchstick-sized pieces, approximately 2-3 inches long to ensure even cooking.
- Place the prepared carrots on a large rimmed baking sheet. Spread them in a single layer to prevent overcrowding, which can cause steaming instead of roasting.
- Drizzle olive oil over the carrots, then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss the carrots gently to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
- Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning them once halfway through cooking to promote even caramelization.
- During the last 5 minutes of roasting, drizzle honey over the carrots and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves. Return to the oven to allow the honey to caramelize.
- Remove from the oven when carrots are tender and have golden brown edges. The honey should create a slight glaze on the surface.
- Let the carrots rest for 2-3 minutes after removing from the oven. This allows the honey to set slightly and the carrots to cool slightly.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- • Choose medium-sized carrots for the best roasting results - they'll caramelize more evenly • Use a rimmed baking sheet to prevent oil and honey from dripping in your oven • Don't overcrowd the carrots; give them space to roast, not steam • For extra flavor, try using different herbs like rosemary or fresh parsley • Use raw honey for a more complex, deeper sweetness • For a gourmet touch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or goat cheese crumbles after roasting • If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 139kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
