Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots

Elevate Your Side Dish Game with Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots

Experience the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with this delightful recipe for Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots, a simple yet elegant dish that will elevate any meal.

Roasted vegetables are a versatile and delicious addition to any menu, but when you combine the natural sweetness of carrots with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar and honey, the result is simply extraordinary. This recipe for Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots takes humble carrots to a whole new level, creating a side dish that is both visually stunning and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving them alongside a holiday roast, grilled chicken, or as a simple weeknight side, these roasted carrots are sure to impress. So, let’s dive into the recipe and elevate your side dish game to new heights!

Ingredients:

Produce:

  • 1 lb Carrots (peeled and trimmed)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 bunch Parsley (for garnish)
  • 1 tsp Dried thyme

Condiments:

  • 1 1/2 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Honey
  • 1 tsp Freshly squeezed lemon juice

Baking & Spices:

  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Coarse salt

Oils & Vinegars:

  • 1 tbsp Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Wash, peel, and trim the carrots, then cut them into uniform pieces. Place the carrots on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, honey, lemon juice, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  4. Drizzle the honey balsamic mixture over the carrots, tossing to coat evenly.
  5. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not too crowded. This allows them to roast evenly and develop a caramelized exterior.
  6. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized, tossing halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  7. Once the carrots are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish.
  8. Garnish the Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
  9. Serve the roasted carrots hot as a delicious side dish to accompany your favorite main course.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

  • Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey balsamic mixture before tossing it with the carrots.
  • Enhance the Flavor: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika to customize the flavor profile of the roasted carrots.
  • Crunchy Texture: For added texture, sprinkle the roasted carrots with toasted nuts or seeds, such as chopped almonds or sesame seeds, before serving.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

  • Keto Option: Substitute the honey with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia. Adjust the sweetness to taste, as keto sweeteners can vary in potency. Also, be mindful of the carb content in balsamic vinegar and use it sparingly.
  • Low Carb Variation: Reduce the amount of honey or omit it entirely for a lower-carb version of this recipe. You can also use a sugar-free maple syrup or a blend of honey and water to reduce the carb content while still achieving a touch of sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots? A: Yes, you can use baby carrots for this recipe. Keep in mind that they may cook faster than larger carrots, so adjust the cooking time accordingly and keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Q: Can I prepare the carrots in advance? A: Yes, you can peel and cut the carrots ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to roast. You can also prepare the honey balsamic mixture in advance and store it separately. When ready to cook, simply toss the carrots with the prepared mixture and roast as directed.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan? A: Absolutely! Simply omit the honey and substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly version of this dish. You can also use a plant-based oil such as avocado oil instead of olive oil.

Impress your family and guests with the irresistible flavors of Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots. With their tender texture, caramelized sweetness, and tangy balsamic glaze, these roasted carrots are a standout side dish that will take your meal to the next level. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or as a simple weeknight side, these carrots are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So, give this recipe a try and delight your taste buds with the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors in every bite!