These honey roasted carrots are super sweet and tender, making them a lovely side dish! Just roast them with a drizzle of honey and a pinch of salt for a tasty treat.
They make any dinner special, and let’s be real—they’re basically dessert you can eat with your meal! I often double the recipe because they go fast! 🥕❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are convenient, but you can use regular carrots if that’s what you have. Just peel and cut them into smaller pieces. The fresher, the better for a sweet taste.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the dish. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use melted butter or any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil.
Honey: Honey gives the carrots their delightful sweetness. If you need a vegan option, try maple syrup instead for a different but yummy twist.
Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to add garlic powder or thyme for an extra flavor boost. Personalizing the seasonings is a great way to make this dish your own!
How Do I Get My Carrots Perfectly Roasted?
The key to perfectly roasted carrots is all about temperature and timing. Here’s how you can achieve that caramelized, tender result:
- Preheat your oven to a high temperature, like 425°F (220°C). This helps the carrots roast quickly and caramelizes their natural sugars.
- Make sure to toss the carrots well with oil and honey so they’re fully coated. This ensures even cooking and vibrant flavor.
- Spread carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding them can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Don’t forget to turn the carrots halfway through cooking! This helps them brown evenly and enhances their flavor.
By following these tips, you’ll have delicious honey roasted carrots that are sweet and satisfying every time!
Honey Roasted Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or peeled and cut regular carrots)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Optional: freshly squeezed lemon juice for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 20-25 minutes to roast in the oven. In total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes before you can enjoy these sweet, caramelized carrots!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help to get those carrots perfectly roasted. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup later on—trust me, it will make your life easier!
2. Prepare the Carrots:
In a large bowl, toss your baby carrots (or your cut regular carrots) with olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a large spoon to make sure every carrot is evenly coated—it’s the key to getting that sweet flavor all around!
3. Spread the Carrots:
Transfer the coated carrots onto your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. It’s important not to crowd the carrots, as they need space to roast properly and get that nice caramelization.
4. Roast in the Oven:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for about 20-25 minutes. Be sure to give them a good turn halfway through cooking, so they brown evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they are tender and have lovely golden-brown edges!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once roasted, take the carrots out of the oven and transfer them to a serving bowl. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. A little squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors even more—so tasty! Serve warm and watch everyone enjoy this delicious side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Carrots?
Absolutely! While baby carrots are convenient, you can use regular carrots. Just peel and cut them into evenly-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make honey roasted carrots vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup. Both options add a delightful sweetness and work beautifully with the other ingredients!
What Should I Do with Leftover Carrots?
Store any leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. They make a great addition to salads or grain bowls!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! You can mix in other root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or beets. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes and check their cooking times, as some may need more or less time than carrots.