Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots
Sweet, Tangy, & Perfectly Tender
The Ultimate Holiday Side Dish
These Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots transform a humble root vegetable into a gourmet side dish. The high heat of the oven caramelizes the natural sugars in the carrots, while the balsamic vinegar adds a sophisticated depth of flavor.
Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner or just want to upgrade your weeknight meal prep, this 5-ingredient recipe is a guaranteed winner. It’s naturally gluten-free and packed with beta-carotene.
Ingredients
The Main Components
- Fresh Whole Carrots (peeled)1 lb
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil2 Tbsp
- Raw Honey2 Tbsp
- Balsamic Vinegar1 Tbsp
Garnish & Spice
- Fresh Thyme or Parsley1 sprig
- Sea Salt & Cracked PepperTo taste
Instructions
Preheat: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Whisk Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, and balsamic vinegar until well combined.
Coat: Place the carrots on the baking sheet and pour the glaze over them. Toss thoroughly to ensure every carrot is coated.
Roast: Bake for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the carrots are tender and the edges are slightly charred and sticky.
🌿 Chef’s Tips
Try to use carrots of similar thickness so they cook evenly. If using large carrots, slice them in half lengthwise!
✨ Variations
Vegan: Simply swap the honey for maple syrup. It provides a similar caramelization and a lovely woody flavor.