Imagine carrots so captivating they might just steal the spotlight from your main dish—yes, even alongside your Thanksgiving turkey. These Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots surprise with their sweet and savory duet, reminiscent of that time I tried caramel popcorn at a county fair and couldn’t stop munching. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you wonder why we don’t treat vegetables like this more often—simple, yet oddly satisfying.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash the carrots thoroughly and slice them crosswise into 2-inch lengths. If any pieces are particularly thick, cut them in half vertically to ensure they cook evenly.
- In a large bowl, mix the carrots with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss until the carrots are well-coated with the mixture.
- Arrange the seasoned carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place them in the oven and roast for 15 to 25 minutes, checking for fork tenderness and a light browning.
- Once done, remove the carrots from the oven. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh carrots (from about 1 large or 2 medium bunches)
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Honey (or maple syrup as an alternative)
- Salt
- Freshly ground pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
FAQ
- Can I use baby carrots for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use baby carrots, but be aware that they tend to cook faster. Start checking them for doneness after about 10 minutes in the oven to ensure they don’t become too soft.
- What can I use if I don’t have honey?
- If you don’t have honey, maple syrup is a great alternative. It will also enhance the natural sweetness of the carrots while helping them caramelize.
- How should I store leftovers?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can warm them in a 350°F oven or use a microwave.
- Can I add other seasonings or herbs?
- Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like cumin, coriander, or cinnamon. You can also try different herbs such as cilantro, mint, or thyme for a fresh twist.
- Do I need to peel the carrots before roasting?
- Peeling is not necessary if the carrots are washed well. Keeping the skin on can add extra texture and nutrients to the dish.
Tips
- When using baby carrots, check them for doneness after 10 minutes to prevent them from becoming mushy, as they cook faster than whole carrots.
- Instead of peeling, thoroughly wash the carrots and cut them into uniform 2-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.
- For a flavor twist, consider adding spices like cumin, coriander, or cinnamon before roasting, or try a garlic Parmesan seasoning by swapping honey with garlic powder and topping with Parmesan.
- Experiment with different fresh herbs for garnish, such as cilantro, mint, or thyme, to give the dish a unique finishing touch.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl – For tossing the carrots with the olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Parchment Paper – To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking during roasting.
- Sheet Pan/Baking Sheet – For roasting the carrots in a single layer in the oven. If someone doesn’t already have a suitable baking sheet, they may need to purchase one.
