Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots Recipe
If you’re looking for a side dish that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in a way that feels both elegant and homey, you’re going to love this Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots Recipe. It takes simple carrots and transforms them by roasting them in a luscious blend of honey and balsamic vinegar, enhanced by garlic and thyme. The result is a caramelized, tender, and vibrant dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, the optional crumble of creamy goat cheese on top adds a delightful contrast that makes every bite sing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simplicity and letting each ingredient shine. Every component contributes to the amazing balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make this dish irresistible.
- 1 lb. carrots, washed & peeled (or unpeeled): Fresh carrots provide the natural sweetness and vibrant color that are the heart of the dish.
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil): Adds a smooth, rich base to help the carrots roast beautifully without sticking.
- 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar: Brings a tangy, slightly sweet depth that pairs perfectly with honey.
- 2 Tbsp honey: Offers natural sweetness that caramelizes during roasting and enhances the carrots’ flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the carrots with gentle warmth and aromatic punch.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Provides an earthy, herbal note that rounds out the dish.
- ¼ tsp salt: Essential for balancing sweetness and helping to bring out the carrots’ natural flavor.
- Cracked black pepper, to taste: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
- ¼ cup goat cheese, crumbled (optional): Adds creamy tang and a lovely texture contrast when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Carrots
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This high heat helps achieve that perfect caramelization. Meanwhile, slice off the carrot ends, then cut them diagonally into roughly 1½ inch pieces. This shape allows the carrots to roast evenly and presents beautifully on the plate.
Step 2: Mix the Honey Balsamic Glaze
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and the oil of your choice. This silky glaze is what will coat the carrots and create that irresistible glossy finish. Toss in the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and plenty of cracked black pepper, stirring until every carrot piece is perfectly coated.
Step 3: Arrange and Roast
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the carrots to your baking sheet, spacing them out so they roast rather than steam. Reserve the leftover glaze in the bowl. Roast the carrots for 20 to 25 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized. In the last 5 to 10 minutes, brush some of the reserved glaze over the carrots to boost flavor and gloss.
Step 4: Finish with Extra Flavor
Once roasted, mix the remaining tablespoon of balsamic vinegar with the remaining tablespoon of honey and drizzle this final glaze over the carrots. Give everything a gentle toss so each bite has that vibrant honey balsamic shine. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
Scatter crumbled goat cheese over the warm carrots if you want to elevate the dish even more. The creamy, tangy cheese perfectly complements the sweet and tangy notes of the roasted carrots, creating a dish full of contrasting textures and flavors.
How to Serve Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add a burst of color and freshness when sprinkled on top. Toasted nuts such as walnuts or pecans can add a wonderful crunch and earthy flavor, pairing beautifully with the sweet and tangy carrots. The optional goat cheese creates a luxurious finish that completes this dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted or grilled meats such as chicken, pork, or steak. It also complements vegetarian mains like quinoa bowls, roasted portobello mushrooms, or hearty grain salads, adding a bright and flavorful vegetable side that never disappoints.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these roasted carrots on a rustic wooden board or a vibrant serving platter to highlight their rich orange color. You can also toss them into a salad with greens and nuts for a warm salad twist. For a festive touch, drizzle extra honey balsamic glaze tableside for guests to add as they please.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they stay fresh for up to 4 days, making them a convenient and tasty leftover option for quick meals or lunches.
Freezing
While carrots can be frozen, the texture may change slightly after thawing. If you want to freeze this dish, spread the roasted carrots on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to freezer bags. Use within 2 months for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the carrots in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This helps them retain their roasted texture better than microwaving. You can also reapply a little honey balsamic glaze when reheating to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use different types of carrots for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use whatever variety of carrots you have on hand—baby carrots, rainbow carrots, or traditional orange carrots all work beautifully. Just adjust the cutting size if needed so they roast evenly.
Is it necessary to peel the carrots?
Peeling is optional. Washed and scrubbed carrots work just fine, especially if you enjoy a bit more texture and rustic charm. Just make sure they are clean before roasting.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the goat cheese topping or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative. The honey can also be replaced with maple syrup if you prefer a fully vegan version.
How can I make the carrots less sweet?
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey to 1 tablespoon and balance it by adding a splash more balsamic vinegar to keep the tangy flavor forward.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a gathering?
You can prepare the carrots and glaze in advance, then roast them fresh just before serving for best results. Alternatively, roast ahead and gently reheat, though they are at their best when served fresh and warm.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a special treat but comes together with ease. Its vibrant colors, balanced flavors, and inviting aroma make it a humble side dish you’ll find yourself craving again and again. I can’t wait for you to make it part of your next meal and share it with those you love—happy roasting!
PrintHoney Balsamic Roasted Carrots Recipe
Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots are a deliciously sweet and tangy side dish featuring tender carrots roasted to perfection and coated with a flavorful blend of balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and thyme. Finished with a drizzle of extra sauce and optional crumbled goat cheese, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors that complement any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Carrots
- 1 lb. carrots, washed and peeled (or unpeeled)
Marinade and Seasoning
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar, divided
- 2 Tbsp honey, divided
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp salt, plus more to taste
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
Topping (Optional)
- ¼ cup goat cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Carrots: Trim both ends off the carrots. Slice the carrots diagonally on the bias into thirds or approximately 1½ inch pieces. If some pieces are too large, slice them lengthwise in half for even roasting. Place the cut carrots into a large bowl.
- Mix Marinade and Coat Carrots: In the bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, and the avocado oil. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and cracked black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly so the carrots are fully coated with the marinade.
- Arrange Carrots on Baking Sheet: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the carrots onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are spaced out for even roasting. Reserve the leftover marinade in the bowl.
- Roast Carrots: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until the carrots are tender when pierced with a fork. During the last 5-10 minutes of roasting, brush the reserved marinade over the carrots to enhance flavor and glaze.
- Prepare Drizzle Sauce: While the carrots roast, mix the remaining 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey. After roasting, drizzle this sauce over the hot carrots. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve: Toss the carrots gently to coat with the final drizzle and serve immediately. Optionally, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top to add a creamy, tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with the roasted carrots.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the goat cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- You can use olive oil in place of avocado oil without affecting the recipe.
- Adjust the honey amount for more or less sweetness according to your preference.
- Make sure to slice carrots evenly for uniform roasting.
- Leftover roasted carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
Keywords: Honey balsamic roasted carrots, roasted carrots recipe, sweet roasted carrots, easy side dish, balsamic vinegar carrots, honey glazed carrots
