Why Youโll Love This Recipe
Honey Garlic Roasted Baby Carrots are a delicious and easy side dish that brings a perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavors. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by honey, while garlic adds a depth of flavor. Roasting caramelizes the honey, creating a rich, slightly crispy texture that pairs well with various main courses. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Baby carrots
- Olive oil
- Honey
- Garlic (minced)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC).
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the baby carrots to the bowl and toss them in the honey-garlic mixture until evenly coated.
- Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Twist:ย Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Citrus Flavor:ย Squeeze fresh lemon or orange juice over the roasted carrots for a tangy touch.
- Herb Infusion:ย Mix in dried or fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an herbal aroma.
- Butter Upgrade:ย Replace half of the olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Maple Alternative:ย Swap honey with maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage:ย Store leftover carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating:ย Reheat in the oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for 5-7 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. A microwave can also be used for a quick reheating option, but the texture may soften more.
FAQs
How do I make the carrots extra crispy?
Roast them at a higher temperature (425ยฐF) and spread them in a single layer without crowding the pan.
Can I use whole carrots instead of baby carrots?
Yes, but slice them into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These carrots store well and can be reheated easily.
Can I use frozen carrots?
Yes, but thaw and pat them dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.
What main dishes pair well with these carrots?
They go great with roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked salmon, or even vegetarian dishes like quinoa bowls.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute for fresh minced garlic.
How do I prevent the honey from burning?
Stir the carrots halfway through roasting and avoid using too much honey.
Can I cook these carrots in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 375ยฐF for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
Simply swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.
Can I add nuts for extra crunch?
Yes! Toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds make a great addition.
Conclusion
Honey Garlic Roasted Baby Carrots are a simple, flavorful, and nutritious side dish that complements any meal. With their caramelized honey glaze and rich garlic undertones, they offer a perfect blend of sweetness and savory goodness. Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, these roasted carrots will be a hit on your table. Try out different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy a healthy, delicious side dish thatโs easy to make and even easier to love.
PrintHoney Garlic Roasted Baby Carrots
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 40-50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Honey Garlic Roasted Baby Carrots are a delightful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a savory honey-garlic glaze. This recipe is simple to prepare and makes a perfect accompaniment to various main courses.
Ingredients
- 1 pound baby carrots, rinsed and dried
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:ย Set your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC).
- Prepare the Glaze:ย In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until thoroughly mixed.
- Coat the Carrots:ย Place the baby carrots in a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey-garlic mixture over the carrots and toss until they are evenly coated.
- Arrange for Roasting:ย Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Roast:ย Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir the carrots halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
- Serve:ย Once done, remove the carrots from the oven. Transfer them to a serving dish, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For uniform cooking, ensure that the carrots are similar in size. If some are significantly larger, consider slicing them in half lengthwise.
- If you prefer a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *