Description
Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish featuring fresh carrots tossed in a sweet and tangy honey balsamic glaze with garlic and thyme, then roasted to tender perfection. Optional crumbled goat cheese adds a creamy, flavorful finish, making this dish a perfect complement to any meal.
Ingredients
Carrots
- 1 lb. carrots, washed & peeled (or unpeeled)
Glaze & Seasoning
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar (divided)
- 2 Tbsp honey (divided)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp salt
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional Topping
- ¼ cup goat cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for roasting.
- Prepare Carrots: Slice both ends off the carrots. Cut the carrots on the bias (diagonally) into roughly 1½ inch pieces. For larger pieces, slice them in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking. Place the cut carrots in a large mixing bowl.
- Make and Toss with Glaze: Whisk together 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 tablespoon avocado or olive oil. Pour this over the carrots along with minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and cracked black pepper. Toss well until all carrots are fully coated in the glaze and seasoning.
- Arrange for Roasting: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the coated carrots onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving behind the excess glaze in the bowl for later use.
- Roast Carrots: Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender. During the last 5-10 minutes of roasting, brush the reserved glaze over the carrots to enhance flavor and caramelization.
- Add Finishing Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey. Drizzle this sauce over the roasted carrots once they come out of the oven. Taste and add additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Toss the carrots gently to coat evenly and serve immediately. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the top for an optional creamy and tangy flavor enhancement.
Notes
- The carrots can be peeled or left unpeeled based on preference.
- Use avocado oil or olive oil interchangeably depending on availability or taste.
- Adjust the sweetness or balsamic vinegar to suit your flavor preference.
- Goat cheese is optional but adds a wonderful tangy creaminess to the dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
