Description
Sweet honey meets earthy roasted carrots in this simple Mediterranean-inspired side dish. Caramelized edges and a glossy finish make these carrots an irresistible companion to any main course that promises pure comfort on your plate.
Ingredients
Scale
Produce:
- 1 pound carrots, about 1 large or 2 medium bunches, cut into 2-inch barrels
Herbs and Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 425°F (218°C) and cover a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring complete surface coverage.
- Select fresh, firm carrots and wash them thoroughly, then pat dry with clean kitchen towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine whole carrots with extra virgin olive oil, pure honey, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper, gently tossing to achieve uniform coating.
- Arrange the seasoned carrots on the prepared baking sheet, distributing them in a single, uncrowded layer to promote even caramelization and roasting.
- Position the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, periodically checking for optimal tenderness and golden-brown edges.
- Carefully remove the roasted carrots from the oven, testing doneness with a fork to ensure a soft yet slightly firm texture.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a light drizzle of honey to enhance flavor profile.
- Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley over the glazed carrots for a vibrant, herbaceous garnish before serving immediately.
Notes
- Elevate plain carrots into a delectable side dish that caramelizes beautifully in high heat, creating a sweet and savory flavor profile.
- Choose medium-sized carrots for uniform roasting and best texture, ensuring they cook evenly without becoming too soft or remaining too crunchy.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze, maintaining the carrots’ perfect golden-brown edges.
- Drizzle honey sparingly to achieve a delightful glaze that enhances natural carrot sweetness without overwhelming the vegetable’s inherent flavor.
- Customize the dish by experimenting with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, which complement the honey’s warmth and add depth to the roasted carrots.
- Check carrots around the 15-minute mark to prevent overcooking, aiming for a tender yet slightly firm texture that retains a gentle bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 3.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg