These honey roasted carrots are a sweet side that everyone loves! They are easy to make and become beautifully caramelized in the oven. Just toss carrots with honey and bake!
I often make these when I want to add a yummy twist to dinner. Plus, they look so vibrant on the plate—who can resist a rainbow of colors? 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: These are sweet and tender, perfect for roasting. If you can’t find them, you can use whole carrots, just be sure to cut them into uniform sizes. This helps them cook evenly.
Honey: Honey gives that wonderful sweetness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup or agave syrup works really well too!
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with roasting. You could substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if desired.
Garlic: Adds great flavor! If you’re sensitive to garlic, you can skip it or use garlic powder instead—just a sprinkle before roasting will do.
Fresh Parsley: This is for garnish, but you can use any fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro for a different taste. Fresh herbs brighten the dish, making it more appealing!
How Do You Get the Best Caramelization on Your Carrots?
Getting the carrots perfectly caramelized is key to this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat the oven well before roasting; this ensures the carrots start cooking evenly when they hit the hot air.
- Spread the carrots out! Make sure they’re in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Timing is essential! Roast first, then add the garlic so it doesn’t burn and turn bitter. This way, you get the best flavor without overcooking.
- Watch for delicious browning—if you see some caramelization at the edges, you know you’re on the right track. It’ll add a lovely flavor!
Honey Roasted Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds baby carrots (or peeled whole carrots)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to cook. You’ll have a total of about 45 minutes to get these delicious honey roasted carrots ready to serve. Perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting vegetables. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or just give it a light grease with some oil.
2. Prepare the Carrots:
In a large bowl, toss the baby carrots with olive oil, honey, kosher salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until the carrots are evenly coated in the sweet and savory mixture.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the carrots out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd them—give each carrot a little space to roast nicely!
4. Roast the Carrots:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for about 20 minutes. This initial roasting helps them get nice and tender and brings out their natural sweetness.
5. Add Garlic:
After the first 20 minutes, take the baking sheet out and sprinkle the thinly sliced garlic over the carrots. Toss them gently to combine. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized at the edges. You want delicious golden-brown color!
6. Final Touches:
Once the carrots are roasted perfectly, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle any leftover glaze from the pan over the top. It adds extra flavor!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the carrots for a burst of color and a fresh taste. Serve them warm and enjoy this delightful side dish with your favorite main meal!
These honey roasted carrots will steal the show at your dinner table with their sweet and savory glaze. Enjoy!
Can I Use Regular Carrots Instead of Baby Carrots?
Absolutely! If you prefer regular carrots, just peel and cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Aim for around 2-3 inches long for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for an alternative to honey, maple syrup or agave syrup works wonderfully! Both will give a similar sweetness and help with caramelization.
How Do I Store Leftover Roasted Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
You can prep the carrots and toss them with the ingredients ahead of time. Just refrigerate them for up to a day before roasting. When you’re ready, roast them straight from the fridge, adjusting the cooking time if necessary.
