Introducing a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious: honey balsamic roasted carrots. When I first tried this recipe, the sweet and tangy combination truly stole my heart. The glaze of balsamic vinegar and honey gives each carrot a delightful coating, creating a dish that both impresses and excites the palate. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll find yourself serving these carrots for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike.
Honey balsamic roasted carrots are not just visually stunning with their rich, caramelized colors; they also provide a complex flavor profile that combines sweetness with savory notes from garlic and thyme. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or looking to impress guests at a dinner party, this dish fits effortlessly into any setting. It’s a fantastic side for roasted meats or can shine brightly on its own, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians as well.
Why you’ll love honey balsamic roasted carrots
- Simple ingredients create bold flavors.
- Minimal prep time—great for busy weeknights.
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free.
- A vibrant, colorful addition to any table.
- Adaptable for various dietary preferences or restrictions.
“Absolutely delightful and perfect for any meal.”
Step-by-step overview
This easy recipe begins by prepping the carrots and creating a sumptuous glaze of balsamic vinegar and honey. After tossing the carrots in this mixture along with garlic and thyme, you’ll roast them until tender and caramelized. The process is straightforward and results in a dish that’s both elegant and bursting with flavor.
What ingredients do I need for honey balsamic roasted carrots?
- 1 lb. carrots, washed & peeled (or unpeeled)
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp salt
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup goat cheese, crumbled (optional)
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Carrots: Any variety can be used; baby carrots also work well.
- Oil: Substitute olive oil for a more pronounced flavor.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a vegan option.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme can be substituted for dried, using about three times the quantity for optimal flavor.
How do I make honey balsamic roasted carrots step-by-step?
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the carrots. The following steps will guide you through the process:
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice both ends off your carrots. Cut your carrots on the bias (diagonally) into thirds or roughly into 1½ inch pieces and place them in a large bowl. You may need to slice the larger pieces in half again lengthwise if they’re too big.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of oil. Pour this mixture over your carrots.
- Add minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and cracked black pepper to taste. Toss until the carrots are fully coated.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the carrots from the bowl and spread them out onto your prepared baking pan. Reserve the liquid in the bowl to brush over the carrots later.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender, brushing with the reserved liquid during the last 5-10 minutes.
- Once done, mix the remaining 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon of honey, then drizzle this sauce over the roasted carrots. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary.
- Toss gently and serve immediately, topping with crumbled goat cheese if desired.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure to cut the carrots uniformly for even cooking.
- Roasting time may vary depending on the size of the carrot pieces.
- Don’t forget to brush the reserved glaze over the carrots during the last few minutes of roasting; this enhances the flavor and glaze.
- If you’re making these carrots ahead of time, slightly under-roast them, and finish cooking just before serving.
- Experiment with adding other herbs like rosemary or parsley for a flavor twist.
How should I serve it?
Honey balsamic roasted carrots are versatile and can be paired with various dishes. They make a fantastic side to roasted chicken, beef, or fish. If you’re serving a vegetarian meal, consider pairing them with a quinoa salad or alongside a creamy risotto. For an even more elegant presentation, serve them on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Yes, you can certainly make honey balsamic roasted carrots ahead of time! Simply prepare them as directed and store covered in the refrigerator. They are best eaten fresh but can be reheated in a warm oven. Keep the carrots in a shallow container so they heat through evenly without drying out. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How do I fix common issues?
If your roasted carrots are dry, consider that they might need more oil or glaze before cooking. To avoid bland flavor, ensure to use enough seasoning and brush on the reserved glaze towards the end of roasting. If they turn out soggy, check that the oven temperature is high enough, and perhaps use a larger baking sheet to allow better airflow.
What variations can I try?
Feel free to unleash your creativity with honey balsamic roasted carrots! You can add in other root vegetables such as parsnips or sweet potatoes for a medley. For enhanced flavor, consider including a splash of fresh orange juice or zest to the glaze. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh carrots instead of baby carrots?
Absolutely, using regular fresh carrots allows for more flavor and texture. Just cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking.
Do I have to peel the carrots?
Peeling is optional. If you enjoy a bit of rustic texture, unpeeled carrots can add a delightful element.
What can I substitute for garlic?
If garlic isn’t to your taste, you can omit it or use shallots for a milder flavor profile.
Can I make this dish spicy?
For those who enjoy heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze to give the dish an exciting kick.
What other herbs pair well with this dish?
Alongside thyme, fresh dill or oregano complements the flavors beautifully, opening up new dimensions of taste.
Enjoy making these honey balsamic roasted carrots—you’ll find that their flavor and vibrant color will brighten any meal!
Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice both ends off your carrots. Cut your carrots on the bias (diagonally) into thirds or roughly into 1½ inch pieces and place them in a large bowl. You may need to slice the larger pieces in half again lengthwise if they’re too big.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of oil. Pour this mixture over your carrots.
- Add minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and cracked black pepper to taste. Toss until the carrots are fully coated.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the carrots from the bowl and spread them out onto your prepared baking pan. Reserve the liquid in the bowl to brush over the carrots later.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender, brushing with the reserved liquid during the last 5-10 minutes.
- Once done, mix the remaining 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon of honey, then drizzle this sauce over the roasted carrots.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary.
- Toss gently and serve immediately, topping with crumbled goat cheese if desired.