Honey roasted carrots are sweet, tender, and oh-so-easy to make! Just toss fresh carrots with honey and a bit of oil, then roast them until they get a nice golden color.
These carrots are a tasty side dish that even kids will love! I usually pair them with any meat or serve them as a snack—who knew veggies could be this delightful? 🥕✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: These are perfect for roasting because they’re sweet and tender. If you can’t find baby carrots, feel free to use regular carrots! Just peel and cut them into sticks or rounds. They’ll work well and give a similar taste.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps the carrots caramelize. If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar will give a similar flavor. You can even use brown sugar mixed with a little water if you don’t have liquid honey on hand.
Olive Oil: This oil helps the carrots roast beautifully. You can substitute it with melted coconut oil or butter for a different taste. Each will add its unique flavor to the dish!
Garlic: Sliced garlic enhances the dish’s flavor. If you prefer, you can use garlic powder instead, but fresh garlic gives the best aroma. Adjust the amount based on your taste.
What’s the Best Way to Roast Carrots for Maximum Flavor?
Roasting carrots is all about achieving that perfect caramelization. Here are important tips to help you perfect this step:
- Even Cooking: Make sure carrots are cut to similar sizes for even cooking. If using larger carrots, cut them into thinner sticks.
- Single Layer: Spread the carrots out on the baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t crowded. This allows for full roasting and prevents steaming.
- Toss Halfway: Don’t forget to turn the carrots halfway through roasting! This helps them caramelize evenly on all sides, resulting in a great texture and flavor.
- Watch for Color: Keep an eye on them as they cook. You’re looking for that nice golden-brown color, which signals they’re nicely caramelized and ready to serve!
Honey Roasted Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds baby carrots (or regular carrots peeled and cut into sticks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or dried herbs for added flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to roast in the oven. In total, you’ll need roughly 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot for roasting. This temperature helps the carrots become beautifully caramelized and tender.
2. Prepare the Carrots:
In a large mixing bowl, add the baby carrots. If you’re using regular carrots, peel them and cut them into sticks. Pour in the olive oil and honey, and then add the sliced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the carrots are well coated in the mixture. The honey will add that delicious sweetness!
3. Arrange the Carrots:
Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Spread the coated carrots out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded so they can roast evenly!
4. Roast the Carrots:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the carrots roast for about 25-30 minutes. Be sure to turn them halfway through to ensure they get evenly caramelized. You want them tender and slightly golden.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the carrots are done roasting, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle the fresh parsley and optional thyme over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve them warm and enjoy the deliciousness!
These honey roasted carrots are a fantastic addition to any meal! Their sweet and savory flavor will surely delight your taste buds. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Regular Carrots Instead of Baby Carrots?
Absolutely! Regular carrots will work just fine. Just peel them and cut them into sticks or rounds to ensure they cook evenly. Aim for similar sizes to baby carrots for the best roasting results!
Can I Substitute the Honey with Something Else?
Yes! If you need a substitute for honey, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar, which will provide a similar sweetness. You can also use brown sugar mixed with a little water if you’re out of liquid sweeteners.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover honey roasted carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of olive oil if needed to freshen them up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, you can! Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so cut them to similar sizes as the carrots to ensure everything roasts evenly.