Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots because they’re the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a rich caramelization from the honey and garlic. The honey adds a natural sweetness, while the garlic and butter bring out savory notes that make each bite irresistible. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side dish or something elegant for a special occasion, this recipe is always a winner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch sticks

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons honey

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or thyme (optional, for garnish)

(Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Carrots:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Carrots: Peel the carrots and cut them into 1-inch sticks. Try to make the pieces as uniform as possible so they cook evenly.

Make the Honey-Garlic Glaze:

3. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, and honey. Stir until the honey and butter are fully incorporated. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Roast the Carrots:

4. Coat the Carrots: Place the carrot sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Pour the honey-garlic glaze over the carrots and toss to coat them evenly.

5. Roast the Carrots: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Halfway through, toss the carrots to ensure they cook evenly and develop a golden-brown color on all sides.

Serve:

6. Garnish and Serve: Once the carrots are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme (optional) for a burst of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately as a flavorful side dish!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people as a side dish. Prep time is about 5 minutes, with roasting time taking 20-25 minutes. The entire dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect, easy side for busy weeknights or elegant meals.

Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted to your taste:

• Add a spicy kick: For a spicy twist, drizzle the carrots with a bit of sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes over them before roasting.

• Roast with other veggies: Add other root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or beets to the mix for a more colorful and hearty vegetable medley.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor, especially towards the last 5 minutes of roasting.

• Make it balsamic: Replace the honey with balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist, or use a mixture of honey and balsamic for a sweet-savory combo.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or roast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots for this recipe?

Yes, you can use baby carrots. Just make sure to cut them into smaller pieces or halves so they cook evenly. Roasting time may be slightly shorter for baby carrots.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the carrots are best fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the glaze and cut the carrots ahead of time. Store the carrots and glaze separately in the fridge and then toss them together and roast when ready to serve.

Can I use other types of honey?

Yes, you can use any type of honey you prefer. Manuka honey, clover honey, or wildflower honey would all work beautifully in this dish.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil. The recipe will still be just as delicious!

How can I make this recipe spicier?

For more heat, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the glaze, or drizzle sriracha over the carrots before roasting. The spice will complement the sweetness of the honey perfectly.

Conclusion

These Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots are a simple, flavorful side dish that will elevate any meal. The combination of sweet honey, savory garlic, and tender roasted carrots makes this dish irresistibly good. Whether you’re serving it as part of a weeknight dinner or as an elegant side for a special occasion, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try them today and enjoy the rich, caramelized flavors of this easy-to-make side!