Honey Roasted Carrots (Printable Version)
Sweet, tender carrots glazed with honey and herbs, roasted to caramelized perfection for an irresistible side dish.
# What You'll Need:
→ Main Ingredients
01 - 2 pounds medium to large carrots, peeled and cut into uniform pieces
02 - 3 tablespoons good quality honey
03 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
04 - ½ teaspoon kosher or sea salt
05 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Optional Ingredients
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
07 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
# Steps to Follow:
01 - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure the oven is fully preheated for even cooking and optimal caramelization.
02 - Wash and peel the carrots thoroughly. Trim off the ends. Cut the carrots into uniform 2-inch pieces, halving medium carrots lengthwise or quartering larger ones lengthwise to ensure even cooking.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. If using, incorporate the chopped fresh thyme and garlic powder.
04 - Add the prepared carrot pieces to the honey glaze mixture. Toss thoroughly using hands or a spatula to ensure even coating on all pieces.
05 - Spread the glazed carrots in a single layer on a large baking sheet, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
06 - Roast in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized. Begin checking for tenderness around the 25-minute mark.
07 - For more uniform caramelization, flip the carrots halfway through roasting (around 15-20 minutes).
08 - The carrots are done when fork-tender with a slight bite and have developed a beautiful caramelized glaze. Avoid over-roasting to prevent mushiness.
09 - Remove from oven and serve immediately while hot, when the glaze is still glistening and flavors are at their peak.
# Additional Tips::
01 -
- Quick and easy requiring only basic ingredients you likely have on hand
- Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that complement almost any main dish
- Elegant enough for holiday dinners yet simple enough for weeknight meals
02 -
- High in vitamin A and antioxidants making them nutritious as well as delicious
- Can be prepared up to a day ahead and reheated just before serving
- Perfect for meal prep as they maintain their texture and flavor when refrigerated
03 -
- Always arrange carrots with plenty of space between pieces on the baking sheet as crowding causes steaming instead of caramelizing
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent the honey from sticking and burning
- For the most vibrant flavor and presentation garnish with additional fresh herbs right before serving rather than cooking them all in the glaze