Healthy Honey Roasted Carrots

Honey brings such a pleasant sweetness to these carrots in this easy recipe. These roasted honey-glazed carrots are the perfect side dish for any meal.

I made this recipe last week as a side dish for our dinner. It turned out fantastic, and I wanted to share it with you. Even though I used basic ingredients, the roasted carrots had such a wonderful flavor. Roasting them caramelizes the natural sugars, and the honey just throws them over the top.

This recipe is not only easy and quick to put together but it is also packed with vitamins and minerals. Carrots are immune boosters and perfect for this flu season. So next time you are wondering what healthy side dish to cook, try these delicious carrots. Even the pickiest of eaters will gobble these up.

There are so many ways to eat carrots – cooked, sautéed, grilled, roasted, juiced, in smoothies, raw. I don’t remember ever seeing fried carrots though. The people here in the South are known for frying everything, so who knows. So, what is your favorite way to eat carrots?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is bound to become a favorite for several reasons. It’s incredibly simple, requiring just a handful of ingredients you likely already have. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by the honey, creating a delightful glaze that even picky eaters will enjoy. Plus, it’s a healthy dish, packed with nutrients that support your immune system.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Microwave
• Tongs

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds carrots, peeled and cut all the same size (I used Earth Exotics)
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 3 Tablespoons honey
• 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
• Freshly-ground salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the honey and brown sugar. Microwave for about 15 seconds, just enough to melt the honey.
3. Coat the carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the honey mixture and toss until the carrots are evenly coated.
4. Spread the carrots in an even layer on the baking sheet.
5. Roast in the oven for 15 minutes. Remove the tray and keep the oven door closed to retain heat.
6. Using tongs, turn the carrots over and return to the oven for another 30 minutes or until they start to caramelize.

Tips for Success

To achieve perfect caramelization, ensure the carrots are spread out in a single layer and not overcrowded on the baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate evenly.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey mixture. You can also sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving for a burst of flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

These honey roasted carrots are not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a good source of vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use baby carrots instead? Yes, you can use baby carrots. Just adjust the cooking time as they may roast faster.

Can I prepare this dish in advance? While best served fresh, you can prepare and roast the carrots a few hours in advance and reheat them in the oven before serving.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

There you have it—a delightful and healthy side dish that’s sure to impress at your next meal. Give this Healthy Honey Roasted Carrots recipe a try and let us know how it turned out for you. We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative variations you come up with!