Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey Glazed Carrots is a simple, delicious, and healthy side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of fresh carrots with a glossy honey glaze. Ready in under 20 minutes, this quick recipe complements a variety of meals and offers a nutritious balance of flavor, color, and texture.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan Option Available
Main Ingredients
- Fresh Carrots: 1 pound (medium to large, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds)
- Honey: 2 tablespoons (pure honey for natural sweetness and glossy finish)
- Butter or Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (butter for richness or olive oil for a lighter, vegan option)
- Salt & Pepper: to taste
- Fresh Herbs (optional): 1 tablespoon chopped thyme or parsley
Optional Variations
- Maple Syrup: substitute for honey in equal amount
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg: a pinch for warm spices
- Minced Garlic: 1 teaspoon added during cooking for a savory depth
- Coconut Oil or Vegan Margarine: replace butter for a vegan version
- Toasted Almonds or Pecans: 2 tablespoons for crunch topping
- Prepare the Carrots: Peel the carrots and cut them into evenly sized sticks or rounds to ensure uniform cooking and even glaze absorption.
- Cook the Carrots: In a large skillet, melt the butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the carrots and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften but remain slightly crisp.
- Add the Honey: Lower the heat and drizzle honey over the carrots. Toss gently to coat all pieces. Let the honey caramelize for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and achieve a silky glaze.
- Season and Garnish: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Add fresh herbs if using, and give everything a final toss to meld flavors before removing from heat.
Notes
- Use fresh carrots for a crisper texture and naturally sweeter flavor.
- Do not overcook; aim for tender-crisp to preserve natural sweetness and avoid mushiness.
- Add honey on low heat to prevent burning and maintain a glossy finish.
- Cut carrots evenly for consistent cooking and attractive presentation.
- Consider topping with toasted nuts or seeds to add a crunchy contrast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe (about 4 oz)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: honey glazed carrots, side dish, healthy carrots, sautéed carrots, quick vegetable recipe, glazed vegetables, vegan side dish option