If you're searching for a side dish that combines simplicity with a burst of flavor, look no further than Honey-Lemon Glazed Carrots. This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of carrots with a tangy twist, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Carrots: The star of the dish, these are best when they’re fresh and vibrant. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness.
Honey: Adds a lovely sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Olive Oil: Helps the carrots roast evenly and adds a subtle richness.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Provides a fresh, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the honey.
Sea Salt & Black Pepper: Balances the flavors and enhances the natural taste of carrots.
Fresh Thyme Leaves: Sprinkled at the end for a fragrant herbal note.
These Honey-Lemon Glazed Carrots are versatile. Pair them with roasted chicken or a hearty beef roast. They're also a fantastic side for holiday meals, adding color and flavor to your table.
First, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough to roast the carrots to perfection.
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the honey, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. This is your glaze, and it's going to coat the carrots beautifully, giving them that irresistible flavor.
Now, add the sliced carrots to the bowl. Toss them around until they’re evenly coated with the glaze. You want each piece to have a bit of that flavor magic.
Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then spread the glazed carrots out in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly.
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and let the carrots roast for 25-30 minutes. Remember to stir them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and starting to caramelize.
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the carrots with fresh thyme leaves. This adds a lovely aroma and a pop of flavor right before serving.