Description

A simple, elegant side dish featuring carrots roasted with a sweet and tangy balsamic-honey glaze. This one-pan recipe is quick, pantry-friendly, and transforms humble vegetables into a caramelized, crowd-pleasing star.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch batons or thick coins
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 2 tablespoons crumbled feta or goat cheese
Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
Wash and peel carrots, then cut into uniform pieces (batons or coins) to ensure even cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Add the prepared carrots to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat every piece in the glaze.
Spread carrots in a single layer on the sheet pan, ensuring they are not crowded to allow for caramelization.
Roast for 15 minutes, then remove from oven, toss or shake the carrots, and optionally brush with extra glaze.
Return to oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes until tender and edges are caramelized and slightly charred.
Transfer to a serving dish and top with optional cheese and herbs. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not crowd the pan, or the carrots will steam instead of roast. Use mid-range balsamic vinegar for better flavor. Honey burns easily, so watch closely in the last few minutes. For extra char, broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheated in a skillet with a splash of water.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
Calories: 120
Sugar: 12
Sodium: 80
Fat: 5
Saturated Fat: 1
Carbohydrates: 18
Fiber: 3
Protein: 2

Keywords: roasted carrots, balsamic glazed carrots, side dish, weeknight dinner, vegetarian, gluten-free, easy recipe, healthy vegetables