Description
These Honey Roasted Carrots are a deliciously sweet and savory side dish perfect for any meal. Carrots are roasted to tender perfection, then glazed in a buttery honey-cayenne sauce and finished with fresh herbs. The combination of honey and a hint of cayenne brings out a wonderful flavor contrast that’s sure to please.
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 2 lbs. carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Glaze
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons honey
- â…› teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ tablespoon fresh thyme or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for roasting carrots to tenderness and caramelization.
- Prepare the carrots: In a large bowl, toss the peeled and chopped carrots with extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until each piece is evenly coated with seasoning.
- Arrange for roasting: Spread the seasoned carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer to promote even roasting and prevent steaming.
- Roast the carrots: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for about 20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and lightly caramelized on the edges.
- Make the honey glaze: While the carrots roast, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the honey and cayenne pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a sweet and slightly spicy glaze.
- Toss carrots with glaze: Once the carrots are roasted, transfer them to the saucepan with the honey glaze and toss well to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley over the glazed carrots before serving to add a fresh herbal note and vibrant color to the dish.
Notes
- Use fresh thyme or parsley for the best flavor; dried herbs can be substituted but adjust quantity accordingly.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference or omit for a completely sweet version.
- For extra caramelization, you can broil the carrots for 1–2 minutes at the end of roasting, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a holiday vegetable spread.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
