Tender carrots char-grilled to smoky perfection, glazed in a sweet and savory honey garlic marinade. These caramelized beauties are the perfect veggie side with bold flavor and irresistible char marks, ideal for summer cookouts or hearty weekday meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Honey Garlic Carrots strike a perfect balance between sweet, savory, and smoky. The natural sugars in the carrots intensify on the grill, while the honey garlic glaze adds complexity and depth. They require minimal prep, cook quickly, and complement a wide range of main dishes—from grilled meats to plant-based entrées. Their vibrant color and charred edges also make them a visually stunning addition to any plate.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lbs carrots, peeled and halved lengthwise
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, soy sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the carrots in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss well to coat evenly.
4. Arrange the carrots on the grill (or a grill pan) and cook for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and nicely charred.
5. Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Maple-glazed: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Herbaceous twist: Add chopped thyme or rosemary to the marinade for an earthy depth.
• Oven-roasted option: Roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through.
• Add citrus: Include a splash of fresh orange or lemon juice in the marinade for brightness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Store leftover carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Microwave reheating is also possible, but may soften the charred texture.

Freezing:
Not recommended, as carrots may lose texture after freezing and thawing.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?

Yes, baby carrots can be used, but be sure to adjust cooking time as they may grill faster.

Can I make these in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes, roasting them at 425°F (220°C) produces similar caramelization and flavor.

How do I know when the carrots are done?

They should be fork-tender and have visible char marks without being overly soft.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Absolutely. The marinade can be made and stored in the refrigerator up to 2 days ahead.

Are these carrots vegan?

They are not vegan as written due to honey, but you can use maple syrup or agave nectar instead.

What can I serve these carrots with?

They pair well with grilled chicken, steak, tofu, lentils, or alongside hearty grain salads.

Can I grill these on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, a grill pan works well if an outdoor grill isn’t available.

How do I prevent the carrots from burning?

Keep the grill at medium-high heat and turn the carrots regularly. Avoid leaving them unattended.

Can I peel the carrots ahead of time?

Yes, peeled and halved carrots can be stored in water in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Do I need to parboil the carrots first?

No parboiling is necessary; the grill alone will cook them to tender perfection.

Conclusion

Grilled Honey Garlic Carrots are a standout side dish that transforms a humble vegetable into something truly memorable. With their caramelized glaze and smoky edges, they bring both flavor and flair to your table. Quick to prepare and versatile enough to suit a variety of menus, these carrots are sure to become a recurring favorite in your seasonal rotation.

Print