These honey-roasted carrots are a sweet side dish that’s super easy to make! Toss fresh carrots in honey and a sprinkle of salt, then roast them until they’re tender and caramelized.
You’ll love how these carrots get golden and sticky. They make a perfect addition to any meal, and let’s be honest, who can resist a little sweetness on their plate? 🥕✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are super convenient for this recipe. If you can’t find them, regular carrots work just as well—just peel and cut them into similar-sized sticks for even cooking.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup is a great substitute that will also give a lovely depth of flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for roasting, but feel free to use any cooking oil you prefer, like avocado or canola oil, if you need a neutral flavor.
Herbs: I love garnishing with fresh parsley for a nice color contrast. Dill is a fantastic choice too, especially if you enjoy a more aromatic touch. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, just remember to use less since they’re more concentrated.
How Can You Achieve Perfectly Roasted Carrots?
Getting those carrots perfectly roasted is all about the right technique! Follow these steps to ensure they turn out tender and caramelized:
- Preheat the Oven: Always start with a hot oven. This helps to caramelize the sugars in the honey quickly, so the carrots don’t steam and become mushy.
- Toss Well: Make sure to toss the carrots thoroughly with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Each carrot should be well coated for maximum flavor and even cooking.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper allows for easy cleanup and prevents sticking. It can also help caramelization by keeping the moisture in check.
- Don’t Crowded the Pan: Spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast, and you won’t get that nice browning.
- Stir Midway: Give the carrots a good stir halfway through roasting. This ensures they cook evenly and helps them get that delicious roasted color on all sides.
How to Make Honey Roasted Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or peeled small whole carrots)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to roast. So, in total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to enjoy these delicious honey-roasted carrots!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Getting the oven nice and hot will help your carrots cook evenly and caramelize beautifully.
2. Prepare the Carrots:
In a large bowl, toss your baby carrots with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Make sure every carrot gets a nice coating so they roast evenly and soak up that sweet flavor!
3. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Transfer the coated carrots to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Spread them out in a single layer—this helps them roast rather than steam!
4. Roast the Carrots:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast the carrots for about 25-30 minutes. Be sure to stir them halfway through so they brown evenly on all sides, getting that lovely caramelization!
5. Transfer and Garnish:
Once they’re tender and have some nice charred edges, take the carrots out of the oven. Transfer them to a serving bowl and add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill on top for a pop of color and flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your honey roasted carrots warm, and enjoy the delightful mix of sweetness and savory goodness! They make a fantastic side dish for any meal!
Can I Use Regular Carrots Instead of Baby Carrots?
Absolutely! If you don’t have baby carrots, you can use regular carrots. Just peel and cut them into similar-sized sticks to ensure even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a vegan option or don’t have honey on hand, maple syrup is a great alternative. It will provide a similar sweetness and flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftover Honey Roasted Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of olive oil to help restore their texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, feel free to mix in other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes! Just cut them to a similar size and adjust the cooking time if needed, as they may take longer to cook than carrots.